“Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair.” — John 12:3
Introduction
Mary of Bethany stands among the most faithful disciples recorded in the New Testament. Though she never preached publicly or traveled as an apostle, her life reveals deep spiritual discernment, wholehearted worship, and unwavering love for Christ. Mary’s example teaches the Church how to listen to Jesus, how to worship Him rightly, and how to recognize His worth in an age of distraction and compromise.
Background and Family
Mary lived in the village of Bethany, about two miles from Jerusalem. She was the sister of Martha and Lazarus, a family known for their close relationship with Jesus (John 11:5). Their home appears to have been a place of hospitality and fellowship, often receiving the Lord during His ministry in Judea.
This family was likely of some means, as evidenced by their ability to host guests and Mary’s possession of costly perfume. More importantly, they were spiritually receptive. Bethany became a place where Jesus was welcomed, honored, and believed.
Mary at the Feet of Jesus
Mary is most clearly identified by her posture: she sat at the feet of Jesus. In Luke 10:39, while Martha was busy with serving, Mary chose to listen to the Lord’s teaching. Jesus affirmed her choice, declaring that she had chosen “the good portion,” which would not be taken from her (Luke 10:42).
This moment reveals Mary’s spiritual priorities. She valued the Word of Christ above activity, presence above performance. Her posture reflects true discipleship—humble, attentive, and surrendered.
Mary’s Faith in the Midst of Sorrow
When Lazarus died, Mary again fell at Jesus’ feet (John 11:32). Her grief was real, yet it was expressed in faith. She believed Jesus had power over death, even if she did not fully understand His timing.
Jesus responded not with rebuke but with compassion. He wept. Mary’s sorrow moved the heart of God, showing that genuine faith does not deny pain but brings it honestly before the Lord.
Anointing Jesus for Burial
Mary’s most prophetic act occurred shortly before the crucifixion. She anointed Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume and wiped them with her hair (John 12:1–8). While others criticized her, Jesus defended her, stating that she had prepared Him for burial.
Mary perceived what many missed. She understood that Jesus was going to die. Her act was worship, sacrifice, and spiritual insight combined. In contrast to Judas’ false concern for the poor, Mary’s devotion was pure and costly.
This act stands as a rebuke to shallow religion. True worship always recognizes the supreme worth of Christ, regardless of cost or public opinion.
Spiritual Significance and Lessons
Mary of Bethany represents the faithful remnant—those who hear the voice of the Lord and respond with obedience. She teaches the Church to:
- Sit at the feet of Jesus before rushing into service
- Trust Christ in grief and uncertainty
- Worship Him without reservation
- Discern spiritual truth when others remain blind
In the last days, when deception increases and devotion grows cold, Mary’s life reminds believers to remain rooted in Christ alone.
Conclusion
Mary of Bethany did not seek recognition, yet Jesus ensured her actions would be remembered. Her life demonstrates that intimacy with Christ produces spiritual clarity, courage, and worship that pleases God. In a noisy and distracted world, Mary’s example calls believers back to the feet of Jesus, where true faith is formed and true worship is born.