Mary took a pound of costly perfume made of pure nard, anointed Jesus’s feet, and wiped them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

[From Choose Generosity: Discovering Whole-Life Stewardship, p. 24]

No expression of grace and generosity is as complete as the life of Jesus, God’s Son freely given to all. As Jesus’ life and ministry showed, God’s grace and love are equally available to everyone. God’s love is unwavering and not dependent on good behavior.

The gift of God’s Son shows God’s grace and love. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him” (John 3:16–17). “Grace” expresses God’s gift of eternal life and commitment to save the world.

God’s astonishing generosity in the life of Jesus is the ultimate example of generosity. God loved us, and we love in response to being loved. We become whole when we receive God’s gift of Jesus Christ realizing that all we are and have is from God, who gives freely with no strings attached.

Prayer Phrase

“He will wipe every tear from their eyes…” (Revelation 21:4).

Spiritual Practice

Fragrance

Remember or find a way to experience directly a fragrance you enjoy (fresh flowers, candle, fresh bread, pine trees, sea air, spices). Ask God to help you discern a situation which calls you to bring reconciliation and healing. Pray that you might spread the peace of Christ as fragrantly and generously as the aroma you now experience.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.