There is a short passage in the Bible (Mark 14:3-9) that records the story of a woman who pours out a small container of sweet smelling oil on Jesus.  In Bible times, it was not uncommon for a host to anoint his guests with a few drops of spices or perfume.  But, this woman poured out the entire contents on Jesus!

      Some of Jesus’ own disciples criticized her for this extravagance.  They felt that this expensive ointment could have been sold and the money given to feed the poor.  Some scholars think the perfume or spice was from a rare plant in India.  It was very valuable.  Yet this woman poured the entire container on Jesus as an expression of love and admiration.

      It is easy for us to criticize the actions of others.  We question why they spend so much money on something or why they drive such an expensive car.  Many of us wonder why the government spends so much money on the things that it does.

      But, the difference here is that this woman did not do this for herself.  She did it for someone else.  Her extravagance was one way of expressing her love for Jesus.

      It is one thing when we spend lavishly on things for ourselves.  But, it is different when we generously give to others.  Extravagance can be a beautiful expression of our love and admiration for others.

      During the upcoming Easter season, I hope you will look for an opportunity to do something extravagant for someone else.  You may not have a lot of money to spend, but you could lavish them with a generous portion of your time.  You could go “above and beyond” in helping a neighbor.  You could even give a generous gift to a stranger.

      Love should be extravagant whether in terms of our time, our gifts or our service to others.  Don’t just love someone this season, love them extravagantly!