Rev. Ray and Pat Amos
A Thankful Heart
“Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. 3 Then Mary took about a pint[a] of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.”
“John 12:1-3”
She cooked with a song in her heart. She had always been given to hospitality, but had to admit that there were times of resentment when she felt taken advantage of. The Bible says to “do everything without grumbling,” but who hasn’t had some of those days. Not today, this meal was her Thanksgiving. Sometimes we must lose something, or someone, to realize what is truly important in life; and should we get it back, what would be too much of a price to thank God?
Who was the last honored guest at your table? Who kept you so mesmerized that you did not want to miss a word he said, even though you knew that you should be helping in the kitchen? After all you had almost lost someone too, but this man saved the day. What do you give in Thanksgiving for a second chance at life? She knew exactly what she would do, and she left the room to get it.
No one believed that he would ever sit at this table again, but here he was. In recent days many tears had fallen in this very place; today it is laughter that is fitting for people of praise. Like the father of the prodigal son said, “We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life.”
“Supper is about ready,” where is Mary? What is that I smell? Jesus knew, Mary was as close to him as she could get; and the beautiful fragrance was the worship of a Thankful heart; “And it filled the entire house.” A smile blushed on Martha’s face as Jesus said, “You outdid yourself again.”
We all have our gifts in this life, and we each one express our Thanksgiving differently. The one thing that I have noticed is the genuineness of truly thankful people. It was a thankful family in that home; I hope our homes will be as thankful today.
“Well now, the table is ready, Christ is with us, come and dine; but first, Lazarus, will you pray?”
Read John 12:1-3
Grace and Peace, Rev Ray
Link to YouTube Video – With a Thankful Heart
