A favorite story of "pouring out" is the woman who anointed the feet of Jesus with her tears and the expensive perfume. while others called it "wasteful" and perhaps others were calculating how such an extravagant gift could have been consumed upon their own desires, Luke picks up on the beautiful word picture of the sweet aroma of wild abandon. This is what a commitment looks like. It is aspirational; it is without limit. Did she go to that dinner thinking she would use some of it, maybe a little bit? It would have been enough, but in the beauty of the moment in the presence of her Lord - overcome with love - she poured it ALL OUT. Will you? Will we?

The Outpouring

The Beautiful Aroma of Sacrifice

Mark 14:1-9

"Since you excel in so many ways - in your faith, your gifted speakers, your knowledge, your enthusiasm, and your love from us - I want you to excel also in this gracious act of giving." 2 Corinthians 8:7

How do we finish well what we begin today?

1) Set apart your heart

See Mark 14:1

See her sacrifice

Sacrifice is giving up

something you love

for something you love more.

2) Find the vessel that makes YOU the vessel

See Mark 14:3

The alabaster box/jar had two purposes: preservation and pouring out.

3) Get started

See Mark 14:8-9

Zechariah4:10, "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin..."

2 Corinthians 8:7, "...excel also in this gracious act of giving."

Today's message will conclude with an invitation to give your "first offering."