Sunday Service

This week’s message emphasizes the power of worship in transforming our lives. By giving our best to God—without holding back, like the woman who broke her alabaster flask in devotion—we open ourselves to His renewal. This act of worship is about surrender, offering everything to God, trusting He will provide us with a new and abundant life.

As we worship in “the beauty of holiness,” God not only changes our hearts but also strengthens us against life’s challenges. This worship invites His peace and victory, revealing that a transformed life of holiness is possible when we fully devote ourselves to Him.

In the preaching, the story of the woman anointing Jesus with costly oil is highlighted as it appears uniquely across the Gospels, each version providing distinct insights and revelations about worship and devotion:

Mark 14:3-9 – Here, the focus is on the woman’s sacrificial act of breaking her alabaster flask. This symbolizes a complete offering, holding nothing back. She gives her best without reservation, challenging us to worship God with everything we have.

Luke 7:36-50 – In Luke’s account, the woman is identified as a sinner. This version reveals the redemptive nature of worship: despite her sinful background, she approaches Jesus, and through her devotion, finds forgiveness and acceptance. It shows that worship can be a path to transformation and grace, welcoming everyone to come as they are.

John 12:1-8 – John’s Gospel identifies the woman as Mary, a dear follower of Jesus. The emphasis here shifts to intimacy and devotion. Mary’s act fills the house with fragrance, symbolizing that true worship leaves a lasting, impactful presence. It also reveals worship as an intimate relationship with Jesus, one that transcends ritual to become deeply personal and heartfelt.

Matthew 26:6-13 – In Matthew, the disciples question the “waste” of the oil, reflecting a worldly perspective that doesn’t value sacrificial worship. Jesus corrects this view by declaring her act as beautiful, highlighting that worship has eternal significance beyond earthly calculations.