"Practically Divine" - Week 7

Today, in Mark 14, Jesus’ story moves closer to His death. First, there is a “holy imperfect” story in verses 3 through 9.

Can you even imagine this scene? Jesus was reclining at the table with other men when a women came in, broke a jar of perfume over Jesus’ feet, and bathed them with her hair. Why would she do this? What could have driven her to make such a spectacle of herself?

In our chapter this week, Becca spoke a lot about trauma. We’ve all experienced it. Some trauma is very hurtful. Some is painful. Some is just embarrassing. Trauma disrupts our normal life and marks us forever. Becca said,

There are even freedom and gifts in some of the trauma we have known. I cannot speak to anyone else’s experience, but trauma gave me a different way of seeing the world and a longing that nothing could fill. (page 136)

This is speculation, but I am guessing this woman from Mark 14 experienced some kind of trauma in her life that gave her a new perspective. She no longer cared about perception among others. She just wanted to worship Jesus. Her life was imperfect, and it was holy.

Now, read Mark 14:10-72.

This chapter is full of imperfection! Do you notice that Jesus didn’t seem moved at all with the imperfection of humanity throughout the Gospels? During His last moments on earth, He chose to spend time with a very imperfect group of men, the disciples. He enjoyed a Passover meal celebrating and teaching them. He even chose to include a betrayer. Our Savior can make and will make all things holy.

We must talk about Peter. Bless his heart. He wanted to be good! He was zealous and optimistic. We have to give him that. But, he fought when he should have been passive, and he was passive when he needed to speak up. Yet, Jesus had already determined that He would build His church upon Peter, the rock. Jesus isn’t overly concerned with our imperfections. He knows they will make us dependent on him. A believer dependent on Christ will devote her life to a holy mission.

What are the traumas, mistakes, and mess-ups you’re hiding? What is it you think you’re missing? Like Peter, have you made a promise, and oath, that you’ve failed to keep? Don’t fret or worry or allow the failure to shut you down. Jesus seems to specialize in turning it all into holy purpose. He did it for the woman with the alabaster jar of perfume and for Peter. He will do it for us too.

God, thank you for all of the holy imperfect stories of the Bible. Your ways are amazing, and Your power is ever present in the lives of people willing to turn back to You in all things. Make us beautifully broken people. Cause our imperfections to lead to holy purpose and calling. Amen.