Irrational Offering

John 12:4-6

⁴ But Judas Iscariot, the disciple who would soon betray him, said, ⁵ “That perfume was worth a year’s wages. It should have been sold and the money given to the poor.” ⁶ Not that he cared for the poor—he was a thief, and since he was in charge of the disciples’ money, he often stole some for himself.

.. Judas was “critical” about this offering that Mary poured out.  Not because he cared for the poor (v. 6) but because he was all about money and how it can benefit him.

.. How many times have we heard of people being so critical about how things are run in organizations or how such and such money was being spent on irrational things as an offering or gift (like Mary’s), or for whatever reason done in faith?  Countless of times.  What’s the motive?  Money, selfishness, pretending to care but really don’t. 

.. What Mary did was an “irrational offering” – where no one could really understand why such an offering; such big of a wage was irrationally offered to Jesus’ feet.  Mary didn’t care about that – all she cared about was the offering.  That meant a lot to her but she gave up her offering to the Lord without hesitation.

.. Money will kill anyone if we let money consume us.

.. In the body of Christ, “irrational offerings” are expected with real believers.  What irrational offering have we given up for Christ in following Him?  What is God, perhaps, calling us to irrationally offer to Him so His name will be lifted high?  When someone gives an irrational offering, be not like Judas who questioned it, but rather, rejoice that their faith is being stretched.

--- Going to full time ministry was an “irrational offering” but I know that’s not it.  There will be times when my obedience to the Lord will be so irrational – i wouldn’t even know the full reason for why He would ask me to do something or be somewhere.  Right now, I can see a little light why I work where I work at this moment, why I am not in the ministry where I used to be, why I do very uncomfortable tasks at work (but praise God it is still within my capacity, just not part of my forte… not yet.)  Being on Sabbatical was also an irrational offering – a letting go of control and allowing God to just take control of everything – forgetting what is behind and moving ahead forward.  Whatever it is that I ought to be “irrationally offering” to God right now, I must be willing and hesitate not to do it 100%.  I know right now, God just calls me to be faithful where I’m at, to relax and enjoy this season of “rest” because God has something ahead. 

_Lord, may You empower me and that I will embrace that power to give you that “irrational offering” you may ask of me.  I will trust it is all for Your glory and honor!  In Jesus’ name, amen.