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John-12

In the Midst of Sorrow: A Devotional Study on John 12​

Introduction​

In John 12, we encounter the familiar faces of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus as they prepare for Jesus' arrival. The narrative takes an unexpected turn as Mary offers an expensive perfume to Jesus, causing a commotion among the disciples. As we delve into this passage, let's explore the spiritual insights and profound truths it contains.

Section 1: The Arrival of the Lord (John 12:1-2)​

Devotional Thought: As Jesus approached Bethany, the walls of their beloved friend Lazarus' tomb, Martha and Mary rushed to meet Him. In the midst of sorrow and grief, Jesus' arrival brought comfort and hope. Consider the comfort Jesus brings into your life during times of sorrow and grief.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does Jesus bring comfort and hope into your life during times of sorrow and grief?
  • In what ways can you be a source of comfort and hope to others during times of sorrow?

Section 2: Mary's Tribute (John 12:3-8)​

Devotional Thought: Mary took a pound of perfume and poured it on Jesus' feet, anointing Him in preparation for burial. Her act of worship and tribute stirred a commotion among the disciples who saw the expense of the perfume. Consider the price we pay in our tributes to Jesus.

Reflection Questions:

  • How much are you willing to spend in your tribute to Jesus?
  • In what ways can you be more intentional in offering acts of worship and tribute to Jesus?

Section 3: Judas' Response (John 12:4-6)​

Devotional Thought: Judas saw Mary's extravagance and expressed his frustration. He questioned the cost of the perfume, reminding the others that the perfume could have been sold to help the poor. Today, let's evaluate our motivations in helping others.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are your acts of service and charity genuinely driven by love for others or a desire to appease your conscience?
  • How can you ensure that your acts of service and charity are motivated by love and compassion?

Section 4: Jesus' Defense (John 12:7)​

Devotional Thought: Jesus defends Mary's tribute, stating that she bought this perfume to anoint His body ahead of time for burial. Let's learn from Jesus' defense of Mary's act of worship.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you better defend acts of worship and tribute that seem extravagant or unnecessary to others?
  • How can you be more intentional in explaining the significance and value of acts of worship?

Section 5: Jesus' Message (John 12:9-11)​

Devotional Thought: During supper, Jesus declared His imminent departure, but He also pledged that He would be with His disciples forever. Let's reflect on the comfort His message brings.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does Jesus' message of departure and presence bring comfort to your life?
  • How can you hold tightly to Jesus' promise of presence during times of loneliness or separation?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional journey through John 12, let's be reminded of Mary's extravagant tribute, Jesus' imminent departure, and His eternal presence. May we offer our tributes to Jesus in extravagant worship, trusting in His departing and returning message, and carrying the comfort He brings into our lives.