At Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, we are on a mission to be the change as Jesus has changed us. This mission calls us to examine our lives and identify what we need to surrender to God. Mary’s act of anointing Jesus challenges us to let go of what we hold dear and offer it to Him in worship.
The Challenge of Surrender
Mary’s act of anointing Jesus was a profound act of surrender. She gave Jesus everything she had, preparing Him for what was to come. This act challenges us to consider what we are holding onto that God is calling us to release. Whether it’s a physical possession, a sin, or a thought, we must be willing to let it go.
In Matthew 16:24-25, Jesus says, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” This call to self-denial and surrender is at the heart of true discipleship.
The Sense in Passionate Praise
Mary’s act of worship made perfect sense to her, even if it seemed extravagant to others. She was giving Jesus the praise, adoration, and honor He deserved. True worship requires us to give not just something, but everything to Jesus.
In John 4:23-24, Jesus speaks of true worshipers who will worship the Father in spirit and truth. This kind of worship is not about external rituals but about a heart fully surrendered to God. Mary’s act of anointing Jesus exemplifies this kind of worship, where the focus is entirely on honoring and glorifying Him.
Application: Study, Share, Serve
- Study: Reflect on the Scriptures to understand the call to surrender and worship. Consider passages like Romans 12:1-2, which speaks of offering our bodies as living sacrifices.
- Share: Share your journey of surrender with others, encouraging them to let go and trust God. Use your testimony to inspire others to take steps of faith and surrender.
- Serve: Serve with a heart of surrender, offering your time and talents to reflect Jesus’ love. Look for ways to serve in your church or community, whether through volunteering, leading a ministry, or simply being available to help others.
Conclusion
As we embrace the mission of Lakeview Christian Church, let us be inspired by Mary’s example to surrender everything to Jesus. In doing so, we will experience the fullness of His love and the transformation He brings to our lives. By letting go of what holds us back, we can fully embrace the life of worship and service that God has called us to.
