Sermon Recap
Pastor Justin Kendrick explored the story of Mary anointing Jesus with costly perfume in Mark 14. He illustrated how Mary gave in gratitude, in response to God’s love and in finding her purpose. He concludes that true fulfillment comes not from pursuing comfort, but from living sacrificially in recognition of Jesus' love and the transformative power of the Gospel. Ultimately, Pastor Justin calls for a commitment to serve and give generously, urging the congregation to embrace a life that embodies faith and purpose beyond personal comfort.
IceBreaker Option
If you could have an unexpected obsession with any completely random and obscure hobby, like competitive sock collecting or extreme ironing, what would it be and why?
HEAD: Read Mark 14:3-9
• What did Mary do and why was she scolded for her actions?
• How did Jesus characterize her actions?
• What is the significance of this account in light of when it took place? Refer to verses 1 and 12.
HEART:
• Take a moment and think of something that is very valuable to you. Then share how you think Mary felt as she poured out her expensive perfume on Jesus?
• What are some ways you have seen comfort influence your decisions in life?
• How has recognizing His love motivated you to take action, moving from prioritizing comfort to sacrifice?
HANDS:
• In what way do you see yourself as having a part to play in the purpose of God?
• How can we as a community group take part in meeting needs in our community?
Prayer
• Pray for a deeper understanding of God's love and sacrifice.
• Seek God's wisdom for your part in His plans and purposes.
• Ask for courage to step out of your comfort zone into service to others.
• Thank God for his blessings and the opportunities to give what He has given us.
Going Deeper:
Pastor Justin referenced the early church and how through service and love the church spread on such a multiplicative level that it could not be stopped by persecution. Read Acts 2:42-47. Choose two or three instances in the book of Acts that illustrate how these Christians turned the world upside down (Acts 17:6). This outline on Blue Letter Bible will be helpful.
https://www.blueletterbible.org/study/eo/Act/Act000.cfm
• What did the Christians do in these passages and what impact did it have?
• How do their actions illustrate that a paradigm shift had happened in their life?
• In what specific way can you follow their example?