A Memorial
But when Jesus was aware of it, He said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a “good work” for Me. ~ Matthew 26:10
A good work. That is how Jesus described the act of the woman who poured costly oil on Him. As I read this scripture, I was reminded of many other verses about “good works.” We know that good works do not save us or bring us into God’s presence, only the blood of Jesus can do that. However, this passage highlights the importance of good works. Jesus declared that this woman’s good work would be remembered as a memorial to her.
It makes me wonder: how many of our good works will be remembered as a memorial to us? How are we leaving a legacy that blesses God and others?
Below is a short list of scriptures that emphasize just how important good works are to our Heavenly Father. Good works not only bless Him but are also part of His plan for us:
- 2 Corinthians 5:10: “For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body.”
- James 2:26: “Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.”
- Titus 2:7: “And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.”
- Titus 3:1: “Remind the believers to submit to the government and its officers. They should be obedient, always ready to do what is good.”
- James 3:13: “If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom.”
- Ephesians 2:10: “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
Today, I want to encourage you to watch for those good works God has planned for your path. He has already set opportunities before you to bless others. Be intentional about recognizing these moments and don’t let them pass you by.
Take the time to serve, to show kindness, and to be a blessing to others. In doing so, you will not only bring joy to those around you but also honor your Heavenly Father. Let your good works become a lasting memorial, a testimony of your love for God and others, and an eternal reward when your time in this world is complete.
Today’s scripture reading: Matthew 26:6-13
6 And when Jesus was in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper,
7 a woman came to Him having an alabaster flask of very costly fragrant oil, and she poured it on His head as He sat at the table.
8 But when His disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, “Why this waste?
9 For this fragrant oil might have been sold for much and given to the poor.”
10 But when Jesus was aware of it, He said to them, “Why do you trouble the woman? For she has done a good work for Me. 11 For you have the poor with you always, but Me you do not have always.
12 For in pouring this fragrant oil on My body, she did it for My burial.
13 Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.”
The Daily Dose 