Day 27 of Lent Friday March 20th

Scripture

“A woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table… Jesus said, ‘She has done a beautiful thing for me.’” — Matthew 26:7, 10

Reflection

On this 27th day, as we move deeper into Passiontide, we see The Strength of Devotion in its purest form: extravagant love. In the days leading up to the Cross, while others were questioning or doubting, this woman gave the very best of what she had. She didn’t hold back “for a rainy day”; she poured it all out in a single act of devotion. Jesus called it “a beautiful thing.”

Lent often feels like a series of small, disciplined steps. But today, Friday, is an invitation to do “a beautiful thing” with your devotion. It might be an extra measure of patience during a difficult work call, a quiet moment of prayer that goes beyond your usual routine, or a sudden act of kindness for someone at home. Devotion isn’t about the size of the sacrifice; it’s about the heart behind it. When you offer your best—your focus, your time, your energy—to God, He sees it as beautiful. Let that thought carry you through your Friday tasks. You aren’t just working; you are offering a “fragrant” life to the One who gave His all for you.

Prayer

Lord, I thank You for the beauty of a devoted heart. On this 27th day, I want to offer You my best. Help me to move beyond just “getting through” my schedule and into a place where my work and my words are a beautiful offering to You. Give me the strength of devotion to stay close to You as we draw nearer to the Cross. May my life today be a reflection of Your grace and a “fragrant” witness to Your love. Amen.