John 12:8

What Does John 12:8 Mean?

Mary had poured expensive perfume on Jesus’s feet as an act of love and worship. Some disciples were upset, saying the perfume should have been sold and the money given to the poor. Jesus defended Mary! He wasn’t saying the poor don’t matter – He cared deeply for the poor throughout His ministry. He was saying this was a unique moment that could never be repeated. Sometimes honoring Jesus with everything we have is exactly the right thing to do.

Hero Challenge

Mary gave her most valuable thing as an offering to Jesus. What is something precious to YOU that you could offer Him – your time, your talent, your full attention in prayer? This week, set aside 10 minutes of completely undivided time just to worship and thank Jesus, with no distractions.

Did You Know?

The perfume Mary used was called “nard” or “spikenard” – an extremely rare and expensive oil made from a plant found in the Himalayan mountains of India. A single jar of it was worth about a year’s wages for a working person! By pouring out the whole jar, Mary held nothing back. Jesus honored her act so much that He said it would be remembered forever – and here we are, still talking about it today!

Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question

Mary gave her very best thing to Jesus. What is something really special you have that you love? How can you use it to show love to God or others?

Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question

The disciples thought Mary’s gift was wasteful. Why do you think Jesus saw it differently? What does this teach us about worship?

Ages 10-13: Champion Question

Jesus said “you do not always have me” – pointing to His coming death. How does the awareness that time with Jesus is precious change the way you prioritize your relationship with Him?