A Woman Washing Jesus' Feet: The Generosity of Service

A Woman Washing Jesus' Feet: The Generosity of Service

In a small home in Bethany, a woman performed one of the most unforgettable acts of love and devotion in all of Scripture. With an alabaster jar of expensive perfume, she anointed Jesus, not caring about the cost or the opinions of others. Her name was Mary—the sister of Martha and Lazarus—and her act became a timeless symbol of what it means to serve God with genuine generosity.

The Heart of Generous Service

Mary’s act was not about luxury; it was about love. She didn’t measure her gift by its price but by her devotion to Jesus. While others in the room called it waste, Jesus called it beautiful.

Authentic service is rarely convenient. It costs us time, comfort, and sometimes reputation—but God sees the heart behind every act. When we pour out what we have for Him, He fills us in return. As Pastor West reminds us, “The more you give, the more He gives back to you—not just in money, but in mercy, faith, and favor.”

When Service Meets Criticism

Mary’s worship drew criticism. The disciples—especially Judas—called it wasteful. Yet Jesus defended her, saying, “Leave her alone… she has done a beautiful thing to me.”

This story reminds us that not everyone will understand your service to God. Some will question your time, your giving, or your devotion. But when your service is for the Lord, He alone is your audience. Don’t let criticism silence your generosity.

God Multiplies What We Give

When Mary broke her jar, she couldn’t have known she was preparing Jesus’ body for burial. Her act of love became part of God’s eternal story—so much so that Jesus said her deed would be remembered wherever the Gospel is preached.

That’s the miracle of generosity: God takes what we place in His hands and uses it far beyond what we could imagine. Your service—whether through giving, mentoring, volunteering, or simply encouraging someone—can ripple across generations when offered with a sincere heart.

Key Lessons: 

1. Service is an act of devotion, not calculation: True generosity comes from love, not obligation.

2. Criticism often follows obedience: When you serve God boldly, expect misunderstanding—but trust His approval above all.

3. Your offering has eternal impact: God can take your gift, multiply it, and bless others in ways unseen.

4. Authentic service honors God’s presence: When we give Him our best, He receives it as worship.

Action Steps

• Reflect: Identify one area where you can serve beyond your comfort zone this week.

• Give: Offer your time, talent, or resources without counting the cost—do it as worship.

• Encourage: Support someone else’s service. Instead of questioning, celebrate their devotion.

• Pray: Ask God to help you see every act of service as an opportunity to bless Him.

Prayer of Generosity

Lord, teach me to serve You with the same heart as Mary—freely, fully, and without hesitation. Help me to give not for recognition but out of love. When others misunderstand my devotion, remind me that You see and receive it as beautiful. Use my hands, time, and gifts to bless others and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This blog post is inspired by Pastor Ralph West's sermon, "The Generosity of Service". This sermon emphasizes that God performs miracles in response to our problems and limitations, particularly when we acknowledge our complete dependence on Him and remain open to His provision.

Click here to purchase the MP3 of the sermon, "The Generosity of Service"