WORSHIP THAT HEAVEN REMEMBERS

Today is Great, and Holy Wednesday and the Church gives us a powerful contrast to reflect on. On one side, we see Judas, one of the twelve, handpicked by Jesus. He had seen miracles, walked alongside the Messiah, heard the greatest sermons ever preached. But instead of offering his heart, he offered betrayal—for thirty pieces of silver.

And on the other side…there’s a woman. Her name isn’t even mentioned. She’s not famous. She doesn’t have a title. But what she does is unforgettable. She brings an alabaster jar of expensive oil. And without hesitation, she broke it open and poured it out on the head of Jesus and in that one bold act of worship, she honors the Savior of the world.

Now, while she was doing this, the disciples were watching. And they didn’t get it. One of them, maybe Judas, said, “What a waste! That oil could’ve been sold, and the money given to the poor!” But Jesus silenced them and said, “Leave her alone. She has done a beautiful thing to me” (Matthew 26:10).

When your heart is filled with love for God, some people won’t understand. They’ll say, “Why go to church so often? Why invest so much time, energy, and resources into your faith? Why does the church need golden domes?” But what they call a waste, heaven calls worship.

The Church isn’t decorating for show. We’re doing it to honor God. We’re saying, “Lord, You deserve the best. You gave us everything. You laid down Your life for us. So, we’re going to give You the most beautiful church, the most sacred liturgy, the most heartfelt praise.” It’s not about extravagance—it’s about reverence.

And here’s what I love: Jesus honored her forever. He said, “Wherever the Gospel is preached, what she did will also be told in memory of her” (Matthew 26:13). Her name wasn’t recorded, but her worship was. And two thousand years later, we’re still talking about her. Her worship made history.

Friend, when you pour out your heart for God—when you give Him your best—He remembers it. He honors your worship. He blesses your devotion. So don’t let the Judas voices discourage you. Be like the woman. Give your best. Worship boldly. Love deeply. And God will reward you with a legacy that outlives your name.

Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan
April 16, 2025