Matthew 26:13 Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.”
There is much in this chapter about remembrance: the woman is remembered for her lavish anointing of Christ. Judas is remembered for his savage betrayal. Jesus urges us to remember His sacrifice during the Eucharist celebration. Peter is remembered for his cowardice but also for his repentance and how Jesus uses him to build the church.
Matthew 26:14-15 Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver.
It is more important for our walk of faith to remember than to be remembered, but it is also true that we will all be remembered in some way. And we have a choice about our actions in life, which influences how we are remembered.
Matthew 26:26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.”
Lord, I would prefer to be remembered as the woman who lavishly anoints You daily in my life. I fear that I am more like Peter, who swears to never forsake You yet turns his back repeatedly. Thank You that his betrayal is not the end of his story. Forgive me when I get distracted by the world and turn my back on You. When this happens, help me to return and repent so that You can use me to build Your church, to comfort Your people, to praise Your name. Amen.
Matthew 26:35 But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same.
Have a blessed day.