Scripture
8 You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”
Reflection
Yesterday we read Jesus’ response to Judas Iscariot’s question as seen in verse 5 namely ‘why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages’. Judas Iscariot wasn’t really concerned about the poor, but he was only thinking of himself. Verse 6 tells us he was a thief who helped himself from the moneybag, thus knowing the perfume is worth a year’s wages, he will benefit more from it.
With such a response (v.8) Jesus is not only revealing Judas Iscariot’s sinful nature, but also reminds those around him, not to get fixed on worldly concerns (even if it seems nobble like taking care of the poor), and in the midst of it all, forget about Him.
We can learn from this account that it’s easy to sometimes fool ourselves by justifying certain actions, regardless how noble it sounds, and forget about Jesus and seeking Him first. Let Jesus always search your heart to discover the real intentions behind your motives (Con).
Thoughts for the day
- How easily can you justify your actions, regardless the degree of nobleness, to benefit your own personal interest?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Pray for a specific situation where you need God’s presence. Invite the Holy Spirit into the place where you (or another) need help, guidance or peace.
