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As we approach Easter, we're reminded of the greatest demonstration of love in history - Jesus's death and resurrection. Unlike other religious figures, Jesus predicted both His death and resurrection, proving He is the living King.

What Makes Jesus's Love Different?

Jesus is the ultimate giver - of His life, blood, time, mercy, grace, and unconditional love. Nothing can stop Him from loving you. When faced with this truth, we must decide to either receive and believe or reject it.

Three Aspects of Christian Life Demonstrated

The story in John 12 shows us three key aspects through different characters:

1. Service through Martha

- Martha demonstrated the gift of hospitality by serving

- Her service is remembered 2,000 years later

- Everyone has different gifts to offer the Kingdom

2. Fellowship through Lazarus

- As an "ex-dead man," Lazarus represented transformation

- Shows how Jesus still transforms lives today

- We become "ex-sinners" through Christ

3. Worship through Mary

- Gave her most valuable possession (perfume worth a year's wages)

- Demonstrated extravagant love in response to Jesus's love

- Shows true worship comes from a grateful heart

What Prevents Us from Giving Our All?

The story contrasts Mary's extravagant giving with Judas's criticism. While Mary gave her best, Judas "knew the price of everything but valued nothing." This raises important questions:

What are we holding onto?

What prevents us from fully trusting Jesus?

Are we giving our time, talent, and treasure extravagantly?

 

Life Application

Consider these questions this week:

What are you holding onto that's keeping you from fully experiencing Christ's love?

How can you respond more extravagantly to God's love?

Are you serving, fellowshipping, and worshiping in ways that reflect Christ's sacrifice?

 

Challenge: Choose one area this week - service, fellowship, or worship - and commit to giving extravagantly in that area. Remember, you can never outgive God. As Luke 6:38 promises, whatever you give will return to you in full measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.