“While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.” (Mark 14:3, NIV)
The week before Jesus’ death, he was eating dinner with friends when this event took place. Some argued that the woman should have sold the expensive perfume and used the money (a year’s wages) for better purposes. But Jesus’ greatly appreciated the gesture. He explained that it was a prophetic enactment pointing to his ensuing death and burial. She broke the jar and anointed Jesus for his burial.
We’re a lot like that jar – without brokenness, nothing can flow. Within us is a treasure. In us is God’s Spirit – his power and anointing – unlimited spiritual potential. But unless we’re broken, it won’t flow. Unless we’re broken, there’s no release.
That’s the lesson Peter learned one week later. He swore he’d never forsake Jesus – then denied him three times. “The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly.” (Luke 22:61-62, NIV) Prideful Peter was now broken.
The truth is, we’re all broken. We just need to admit it. And here’s the good news: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18, NIV)
And one more thing…if you are broken, with Jesus, there’s always a resurrection! Join us for worship this holy week:
- Good Friday, 6 p.m. on the south lawn of the Denton Courthouse on the Square
- Easter Sunrise, 7 a.m. at the crosses
- 8:30 Robson Ranch gymnasium
- 10 a.m. Main Campus
