Jesus defends Mary for anointing his feet with oil
- 1. In the poignant narrative found in John 12:1–8, we encounter a powerful moment during the final days of Jesus' earthly ministry, where Mary of Bethany takes an extraordinary step of devotion by anointing Jesus' feet with a costly perfume made of pure nard. This act of love and reverence transcends simple ceremony; it is a profound expression of her admiration and appreciation for the man who transformed her brother Lazarus's death into life just days earlier. As Mary's actions unfold, they are met with scorn from Judas Iscariot, who indignantly criticizes the extravagant gesture, claiming that the expensive oil could have been sold to benefit the poor. However, Jesus swiftly defends Mary, proclaiming, 'Leave her alone. She has kept this for the day of my burial.' In doing so, he not only exalts her act of worship but also foreshadows his impending sacrifice. This interaction not only highlights the disparity between genuine devotion and misguided judgment but also reminds us that true worship often defies societal norms and expectations. Jesus' commendation of Mary serves as an enduring testament to the value of heartfelt devotion, illustrating that there are moments when love and reverence take precedence over financial prudence and the voices of critics.
What did Mary use to anoint Jesus' feet?
A) Oil from olives
B) Expensive perfume
C) Water
D) Wine
- 2. What was Judas' concern regarding the perfume's use?
A) It made a mess
B) It upset the disciples
C) It was too lavish
D) It could have been sold for the poor
- 3. How did Jesus respond to Judas' criticism?
A) Leave her alone
B) Stop this nonsense
C) No more oil
D) You are wrong
- 4. What did Jesus say the poor would always have?
A) Help is always available
B) The rich will help them
C) The poor you will always have with you
D) You must care for them
- 5. What significant action did Mary do to Jesus' feet?
A) Washed them with water
B) Touched them gently
C) Wiped them with her hair
D) Kissed them
- 6. In which town did this event take place?
A) Capernaum
B) Nazareth
C) Bethany
D) Jerusalem
- 7. What did Mary’s act symbolize?
A) Rebellion against tradition
B) Devotion and honor to Jesus
C) Fear of the Romans
D) Greed and indulgence
- 8. What was Judas' actual motive for his criticism?
A) He loved the poor
B) He was a thief
C) He wanted to follow Jesus
D) He cared for Mary
- 9. What passion did Mary demonstrate through her actions?
A) Hate and anger
B) Fear and sorrow
C) Indifference
D) Love and gratitude
- 10. What does Jesus' defense of Mary highlight about His mission?
A) His judgment of sinners
B) His acceptance of love and devotion
C) His search for wealth
D) His need for popularity
- 11. What lesson does this passage teach regarding serving others?
A) Avoiding waste
B) Understanding true devotion to God
C) Promoting public virtue
D) Collecting donations for the poor
- 12. Who was sitting at the table with Jesus during this event?
A) Philip
B) Thomas
C) Lazarus
D) James
- 13. What did Jesus mean by saying Mary had chosen the better part?
A) She was the first servant.
B) She chose to serve others.
C) She prioritized spiritual over material.
D) She acted before others.
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