Sunday School 2021 Feb 28 - Jesus is Anointed

This week, we take a look at the story of Jesus being anointed.
Read John 12:1-8 & Mark 14:1-9
Also reference- Matthew 26:6-13
We see Jesus as he begins his journey to Jerusalem, to his final days, arrest, trial, torture, and death. Six days before the Passover, he arrives in Bethany, a familiar town and spends a few last moments with friends/disciples and followers. Mary arrives with special ointment (perfume) that she pours out on Jesus head/feet and wipes his feet with her hair. The disciples (Judas Iscariot) see this as a waste and say it should have been used for the poor. Jesus instead tells those in the room that this is a "beautiful" thing she has done and that she is preparing him for his burial. Jesus is again letting his followers know that he is about to die, even if they don't believe it or understand what is fully going on in that moment.
Faith Challenge:
How do we view death and the events surrounding death and burial? Kids may not have a lot of experience with the process of death and what is involved. As adults, it isn't a bad thing to familiarize them with death and burial practices. However, how does Jesus' anointing benefit us? It points to the fact that Jesus knew he was going to die and this death wasn't an empty act. His anointing represented a special role he had to serve God's greater purpose in our life! How can we change our view of death from a thing of sadness to a thing of celebration. Just like the beautiful smell of the perfume... the sweet smell of Heaven awaits us at our death and those who know and trust in Jesus. As a family... talk about things that have eternal value... knowing Jesus and that death is not to be feared, but that Jesus has conquered sin, death, and the devil on our behalf. What a blessing to have Jesus in our life. Pray and talk with those who don't yet know Jesus and his love.
May God bless you in your week ahead and hope to see you here at Messiah.