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AfterThoughts: February 15, 2026

February 15, 2026
Broken And Spilled Out: The Fragrance Of True Worship
John 12:1–11

 

This week, Dr. David Eldridge continued the series from the Gospel of John. In these verses, he expanded on two points:

  • Mary: A Portrait Of Humble Devotion
  • Judas: A Portrait Of Empty Religion

GOING DEEPER: 

  • What are some of the most memorable meals that you have enjoyed? Who shared the meal with you? What was the joyous occasion you were celebrating?
     
  • Year after year, God’s people gathered to celebrate their redemption, their rescue, and their freedom during the week of Passover. But while this was the same time of year, the meal in John 12:1–11was brought about by an exceptional occasion. Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead, and they gathered to celebrate. And, when we listen carefully, we can hear the not too distant "drumbeat" of Jesus headed to the cross. As we approach the Lenten season and Easter Sunday, how can you change your schedule this week to make more time for adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication before the Lord?
     
  • Pastor David shared that in this story, Mary is a portrait of humble devotion. Mary’s actions showed that Jesus was worth her very best and her most extravagant, and she poured out every ounce of the expensive ointment on Jesus. She wiped His feet with her hair. This is the week of Passover, and her gift would normally be seen as a burial spice. What makes Mary’s act so powerful and meaningful is that she anointed Jesus in advance, preparing His body for the grave. What do we learn from Mary about our posture of worship? What are you withholding from Him in spite of all He sacrificed for you? Are you willing to pour out your comfort, reputation, financial cushion, relationships, thought-life, or attitude in service and devotion to Jesus? Are you all in for Him?
     
  • Pastor David shared that we also see a portrait of empty religion in Judas. Judas is a foil to the pure and powerful display of love we see in Mary. Judas is a hypocrite, hiding his evil behind a cloak of piety. He was corrupt, greedy, spiritually dead, and His darkness was hidden beneath religious language. The lesson for us is that it is possible to be in the proximity of Jesus without having intimacy with Jesus. What secret sin are you holding on to? Do you want the benefits of Christianity– community, family stability, and good reputation but not Jesus Himself? Do you want Jesus just for Jesus?

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: 

  • To view past sermons, please click here.

The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24–26

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