Apr 3, 2022
Focus reading John 12:1-8 Apologies this is a 20 minute message and not 10.
I’ve grown up in a church and learnt my theology in a way which
has always stressed God’s love to us rather than my love to God.
And I’ve grown up in a culture, where men especially are
uncomfortable about publically showing their love to others. A
culture where even another person showing open and public affection
can cause discomfort and embarrassment.
While putting God’s love to us,
first, before our love to God is not wrong, for me and for many in
the church, any “over the top” public sign of affection for God or
others, especially if it is extravagant, or showy, or very personal
is a problem, even an embarrassment. Today’s gospel reading tells
us that such acts of extravagant love towards God are entirely
appropriate.
Questions for discussion or reflection.
Read today’s Gospel reading. (John 12:1-8) What do you think of
Mary’s gift to Jesus? Are you comfortable with it? Would you ever
be able to do such a public thing for God? What would be a similar
extravagant act of thanks in today’s world? Think about what God
has done for you. What kind of response does it require?
*****shortened version of the sermoin script******