Matthew 26:11

"However, knowing this, Jesus said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? She has done a good work for me."

Key Reflection

Jesus defends the woman's act of anointing his feet, highlighting that her actions demonstrate faith and love, which are more valuable than adhering to strict rituals or judgments about individuals' worthiness. This moment underscores Jesus’ priority on mercy and grace over traditional Sabbath observances.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 11. For ye have the poor, etc. Mark adds, "Whensoever ye will ye may do them good." It was right that they should regard the poor. It was a plain precept of religion, (see Ps 41:1; Pr 14:21; Pr 29:7; Ga 2:10,) and our Saviour would not prohibit it, but do all that was possible to excite his followers to the duty. But every duty should be done in its place, and the duty then incumbent was that which Mary had performed. They would afterwards have abundant occasion to show their regard for the poor. Me ye have not always. He alludes here to his dying, and his going away to heaven.

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