ALABASTER BOX
Lift your hands and bless the name of Jesus, thanking God for His presence in every aspect of our lives. Let us breathe in His word, worship, and praise, as we gather from all corners of the world to experience His grace and peace. May the Holy Spirit fill us afresh as we honor the name of Jesus and express our gratitude.
A warm welcome to everyone joining us online from different parts of the world. This is a special time for us to offer our best worship and sacrifice to God. Let us set aside distractions, invite others to join us, and open our hearts to receive the engrafted word that can save our souls. May the hand of God rest upon us as we engage in this service, with full attention and the assurance that God is with us, in Jesus’ name, amen. Please turn to Luke chapter 7, verse 37, as we begin our reading.
Today is our Alabaster Box Sunday, and we are continuing our series on The Attitude of Gratitude. I will be speaking briefly on this subject again, focusing on the example of a woman in the Bible who demonstrated a peculiar attitude of gratitude. Jesus referenced her action with delight, and this action was recorded in the synoptic gospels – Matthew 26:6-13, Luke 7:37-50, and Mark 14:3-9. Her action was not going to be allowed to go unnoticed, and it prompts us to reflect on the actions we have taken in the past year and what actions we are willing to take in this month of gratitude as we approach another year. This service is dedicated to symbolic actions that remind us to give something back to God, showing what is in our hearts towards Him.
The story of the woman with the alabaster box is a powerful example of gratitude. She was a woman from the city, known as a sinner, and yet she approached Jesus with a heart full of gratitude. She brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, wept at Jesus’ feet, washed them with her tears, wiped them with her hair, and anointed them with the fragrant oil. This act of humility and gratitude was met with criticism from the Pharisee who had invited Jesus to his house. He questioned Jesus’ identity as a prophet, not recognizing the sincerity and depth of the woman’s gratitude. This story serves as a reminder that true gratitude comes from the heart, regardless of one’s past, and that symbolic actions can speak volumes about our devotion to God.
In Luke 7 verse 40, Jesus responded to the Pharisee Simon, who had not spoken aloud but had thoughts in his heart. Jesus addressed Simon, acknowledging that he had something to say to him. Simon, in turn, gave Jesus permission to speak, referring to him as “teacher.” Jesus then proceeded to tell a parable about a creditor who had two debtors, one who owed 500 denarii and the other 50. He highlighted that the one who owed more would naturally love the creditor more when both debts were forgiven. When Jesus asked Simon which debtor would love the creditor more, Simon correctly judged that it would be the one who was forgiven more.
Jesus then turned his attention to a woman who had entered Simon’s house. He pointed out to Simon that the woman had shown great love and hospitality towards him, unlike Simon who had not provided water for his feet or a kiss of greeting. Jesus emphasized that the woman’s actions, such as washing his feet with her tears and anointing them with fragrant oil, demonstrated her great love and gratitude. He contrasted this with Simon’s lack of hospitality and love. Jesus concluded by stating that the woman’s many sins had been forgiven because of her great love, while those who are forgiven little, love little. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of showing love and gratitude, as well as the significance of forgiveness and the depth of love it can inspire.
It is important to grasp the significance of our actions and sacrifices in showing appreciation towards God for His love. God does not require anything from us, but He values our acknowledgment of the depth of His love for us. Have you recently demonstrated your appreciation for God’s love through your actions? What gestures have you made to express your gratitude towards Him? In Luke 4:18, Jesus proclaimed the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy, signifying that He is the anointed one. When we offer our worship and sacrifices, it is as if we are anointing the anointed one, Jesus, showcasing our acknowledgment of God’s work in our lives.
The story of the woman who brought an Alabaster jar of costly fragrance to Jesus exemplifies the level of sacrifice and appreciation that we should have towards God. Despite her past as a sinner, she displayed immense gratitude for the forgiveness she received. This year, many of us have faced challenges, yet we continue to turn to God, and He continues to welcome us with open arms, working everything out for our benefit. The woman’s offering of the expensive fragrance, equivalent to 300 denarii, symbolizes the sacrificial nature of true appreciation. Whether she was wealthy or not, the act of bringing such a costly gift required great sacrifice, reflecting the depth of her gratitude towards God.
Throughout this year, many individuals have experienced the saving grace of God in various aspects of their lives. Families have been spared from the devastating effects of Covid-19, individuals have been healed from illnesses in hospitals, and some have been lifted from a downward spiral in their career paths. God has restored jobs, businesses, and has worked wonders in the lives of many, keeping them safe and blessing them abundantly. The Bible teaches us that there is always hope, even in the face of adversity, and God has shown His mercy and grace to those who have faced challenges this year.
It is important to recognize and appreciate the hand of God in our lives, especially during times of difficulty and uncertainty. Sometimes, our actions for God may be met with criticism or disapproval from others, but it is crucial to remain steadfast in our faith and worship. Just like the woman who anointed Jesus with expensive perfume, despite the opinions of the crowd, we should continue to show our gratitude and devotion to God. While there may be differing views on where our resources should be directed, whether towards charity or the church, it is essential to remember that supporting the preaching and teaching of the gospel is a vital aspect of our faith. Christ is indeed the hope of the world, and our contributions towards spreading His message can have a lasting impact on those around us.
The hope of the world still lies in Christ, and it is through spreading this message of hope to every corner of the earth that the kingdom of God is established. As men and women hear this message, they are saved, discipled, and come to understand the purpose that God has for their lives. They join in living a life of purpose and impact, embodying the gospel of Christ. It is a call to invest your best in following Jesus, even if it means letting go of things that are important to you. Sometimes, God may require more time or sacrifices from you, but it is essential to listen to His voice above the noise of the crowd.
The story of the woman who anointed Jesus with expensive oil is a powerful reminder of sacrificial worship and prophetic actions. Her act was recognized by Jesus as prophetic, symbolizing His impending death and resurrection. Similarly, there are sacrifices and acts of worship that you can offer to God in this season that will have a prophetic impact on the future. It is a call to seek after Jesus with all your heart, not allowing external circumstances like the Covid-19 pandemic to dampen your hunger for Him. Reflect on your journey of faith and revival, and consider if you are still actively pursuing God’s kingdom or if you have become complacent. Embrace the example of the woman with the Alabaster box, who sought after Jesus with all her heart, and let her story inspire you to continue seeking after God fervently.
The heartbeat of God’s kingdom resonates within your heart, pulsating with a rhythm that is undeniable. Whether you are a person of wealth, like the one who offered a precious gift, or a humble individual, akin to the widow with her mite, what truly matters is the generosity of your worship. Just like the woman who boldly entered through the side door to honor Jesus, you too can lavish your worship upon Him without hesitation. It is not about waiting to be invited or acknowledged by others; it is about seeking Jesus with audacity and sacrifice, regardless of who may or may not recognize your efforts.
In a world where criticism and doubt may surround your worship, it is essential to remember that pouring out your heart to God is a humbling act of love. Like the woman who shamelessly kissed Jesus’ feet and allowed the fragrance of her worship to fill the room, your devotion should be a beacon of light in any space you occupy. Whether it is in your workplace or at home, let the essence of your sacrifice and worship permeate the atmosphere, leaving a lasting impact on those around you. Embrace the audacity of worship, for it is through your unwavering love for God that others will witness the beauty of true devotion.
Today, I want to share with you that there are amazing things that God has in store for the New Year, but they can only be accessed through dimensions of praise, sacrifice, and worship. I want to declare over you that the hand of God is coming upon you afresh, to bring you out of apathy, laxity, and a life that does not practically show the love of Christ or demonstrate sacrifice for God. Last week, I had to travel to Kanshasa, Congo DRC to preach, and it was a struggle. The Holy Spirit asked me if I was willing to make the stretch for Him, and I had to pray about it. Despite my initial reluctance, I realized that I was willing to do anything for Jesus. As we worship God today, I see a new level of obedience coming upon you, so that you will be able to say that there’s nothing you have that you cannot waste on Jesus. Let’s lift our hands and bless His name, releasing our whole Alabaster box on Him today.
A pastor asked me to be present physically for three or four days of events, and although I initially thought about sending a video, I eventually decided to make the journey. I had to fly into Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, spend the night, then go to Congo, come back to Addis Ababa, spend another night, and then return to Nigeria, undergoing multiple COVID tests along the way. Despite the inconvenience, I realized that I was willing to do anything for Jesus. As we come to worship God today, let’s release our whole Alabaster box on Him and ask that He accepts our worship in this service. Let’s lift our hands and bless His name, as we declare that there’s nothing we have that God cannot demand in terms of worship, possession, time, or life.
Today, we come together from all corners of the earth to lift up our worship to you, Father. We ask that you accept our worship and sacrifice, and whatever you have placed in the hearts of your people. We offer a sacrifice of obedience, giving, forgiving, letting go, taking action, giving to your church, and being a blessing to others. We pray that you give us the grace to walk in obedience, leading us to the fullness of your plan for this time. We thank you, everlasting Father, as we lift our hands in worship and prepare our hearts to receive from you.
As we enter into this time of worship, I encourage you to find a comfortable position and join in lifting your hands to God. God is about to release something powerful in your life, and we are all invited to worship together. Let the fragrance of our worship fill this place as we open our mouths and give all the glory to God. He is worthy of it all, and we are called to worship him with our whole being. Let’s focus our attention on God and verbalize our worship with prophetic action.
In these final moments of worship, I urge you to remove any distractions and fully engage with God. If possible, kneel before him and pour out your heart in worship. Just as the woman who anointed Jesus did not just sit and listen, but knelt and poured out everything on him, let us also verbalize our worship with prophetic action. Whether you are in your living room or bedroom, this is a time to fully focus on God and express your worship in a meaningful way. Let’s make this a time of deep connection with God through our worship.
If there is a desire in your heart that you believe God is calling you to act upon, now is the perfect time to take that step. Grab a device, whether it be a phone, a computer, or any other means of communication, and offer your heart to God. Let Him know that you are fully committed to Him, willing to give of your time, your service, and even your forgiveness. Pledge to reconnect with someone who may have hurt you, or whom you have held bitterness against. Make a promise to God that you will go wherever He leads you, lifting your hands in true surrender.
As we come together in worship, let us raise our voices and our hearts to Jesus. Let our worship be a sweet fragrance before Him, like an evening sacrifice. May the lifting of our hands be a symbol of our surrender and dedication to God. Let the presence of God’s grace and mercy fill every heart, permeating our lives with His love. We thank God for accepting our sacrifices, our gifts, and our hearts in worship.
Let this be a time of celebration and grace as we offer our love, appreciation, and gratitude to God. Just as the woman who brought the Alabaster box, let us pour out our hearts to Him in worship. May this year end with joy and the new year begin with blessings. May every individual and family experience the heavens opening over them, bringing forth a new season of hope and transformation. Let us continue to worship and bless the name of the Lord, knowing that He accepts our offerings with love and grace.