Good morning. Of all the words we read in scripture, “holy” is one of the more interesting. By definition, we read that holy means “that which is dedicated or consecrated to God”. But that definition isn’t complete. After all, “holy” is a word repeated constantly by the angelic beings of heaven who are engaged in the never-ending worship of God Almighty. Another definition of holy is: “exalted or worthy of complete devotion as One perfect in goodness and righteousness”.
Revelation 4:8, speaking of the heavenly host in all of its glory, says of them: Day and night they never stop saying: “Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty, who was and is and is to come!”
John 12:4-6 tells us about Lazarus’ sister Mary and her extravagant gift poured out upon Jesus: Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.
But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.”
The passage explains that Judas, who was a thief, had other motives for his complaint. However, he brings to bear an interesting point for today’s church. Where are the boundaries between what is expedient and what is holy? What should be our priorities in worship regarding the most important usage of our resources, including space, time, and talents.
Jesus rebuked Judas and pointed out the necessary and righteous nature of Mary’s generous worship. Yes, the perfume was valuable. But what greater value could it have than to be used as an act of holiness in worship. For Mary, the substance was “set apart for God”. To anoint Jesus in worship was its most reasonable and righteous application.
Holiness to God and the holiness of God is at the heart of righteous worship. That we may shout with the angels that “He is holy!” is a privilege and a joy.
The comforts of people and the needs of people should be met, but as we worship the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, we should remember that our priority is HOLINESS! All that we say and do is to be set apart for Him in worship. All that we say and do must acknowledge and magnify His holiness as we worship.
Vern