If you’ve ever read the Gospel of Mark, you might have come across a puzzling verse in chapter 14, verse 7: “For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me.” This statement by Jesus has sparked various interpretations and discussions. What did Jesus mean? Was He dismissing the importance of helping the poor? Let’s dive in and explore the context and deeper meaning of Mark 14:7.
The Context: Anointing at Bethany
To truly understand Mark 14:7, we need to start by looking at the broader context. This verse is part of a narrative known as the Anointing at Bethany. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s happening:
- Setting: Jesus is in Bethany, at the house of Simon the Leper.
- Event: A woman (identified as Mary in the Gospel of John) anoints Jesus with an expensive perfume made of pure nard.
- Reaction: Some present, especially the disciples, are indignant and criticize the woman, suggesting the perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor.
Jesus responds to their criticism with Mark 14:6-9, defending the woman’s actions. He says, “Leave her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me.”
What Did Jesus Mean?
Let’s break down the key components of Mark 14:7:
1. “For you always have the poor with you”
This part of Jesus’ statement acknowledges a persistent reality: poverty. Jesus isn’t dismissing the importance of helping the poor. In fact, helping those in need is a recurring theme in His teachings. For instance, in Matthew 25:40, Jesus says, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.”
2. “And whenever you want, you can do good for them”
Jesus emphasizes that opportunities to help the poor are always present. Acts of kindness and charity should be ongoing and integral to our lives. The disciples, and by extension, all followers of Jesus, are encouraged to continually support the less fortunate.
3. “But you will not always have me”
At this point in the Gospel narrative, Jesus is aware that His crucifixion is imminent. He’s highlighting the unique and limited time His disciples have with Him in person. The act of anointing by Mary is a profound moment that prepares Jesus for His burial, as He later clarifies in Mark 14:8.
Misinterpretations and Clarifications
Some people might misunderstand Jesus’ words as a dismissal of the poor or an excuse not to help them. Let’s clarify a few points:
- Not a Dismissal of the Poor: Jesus isn’t suggesting that poverty is unimportant or that it shouldn’t be addressed. Instead, He’s placing the act of anointing in its unique context—His approaching death and the preparation for it.
- A Call for Ongoing Charity: By acknowledging that the poor will always be with us, Jesus underscores the ongoing responsibility of His followers to help those in need. It’s a reminder that our commitment to charity shouldn’t waver.
Biblical and Historical Context
To understand Jesus’ statement even deeper, it’s helpful to look at some Old Testament references and Jewish customs:
Old Testament Insights
Jesus’ statement echoes Deuteronomy 15:11: “For there will never cease to be poor in the land. Therefore I command you, ‘You shall open wide your hand to your brother, to the needy and to the poor, in your land.’” This verse from the Torah acknowledges the reality of poverty while simultaneously commanding generosity and support for the poor.
Jewish Customs of Anointing
In Jewish tradition, anointing someone with oil or perfume was a significant act, often associated with kings, prophets, and priests. It symbolized honor, consecration, and preparation. By anointing Jesus, Mary was not only showing great respect and love but also prophetically preparing Him for His burial, as Jesus Himself explained.
Practical Takeaways for Today
So, what can we take away from Mark 14:7 in our lives today?
1. Balance Between Immediate and Ongoing Acts of Goodness
There are times for immediate, special acts of love and devotion, like Mary’s anointing of Jesus. But there’s also a call for continuous support and generosity towards the poor. As followers of Jesus, we should seek to balance these aspects in our lives.
2. Continual Charity
Jesus’ reminder that the poor will always be with us serves as a call to action. We’re encouraged to continually seek out ways to help those in need. This could be through donations, volunteering, or simply showing kindness and support in everyday interactions.
3. Appreciating Unique Moments
Just as Jesus highlighted the significance of Mary’s act in the context of His impending crucifixion, we should also recognize and appreciate unique, significant moments in our lives and the lives of others. These moments can be opportunities to show deep love and respect.
Conclusion
Mark 14:7 isn’t a dismissal of the poor or a call to neglect charity. Instead, it’s a profound statement that highlights both the ongoing need to help the less fortunate and the importance of recognizing unique moments of devotion and preparation. Jesus teaches us to have a heart that is always ready to give and serve, recognizing the enduring presence of those in need and the special, fleeting moments that call for extraordinary acts of love.
So, as you reflect on this verse, consider how you can balance continual charity with recognizing and embracing significant moments of devotion and service in your own life. It’s about seeing the bigger picture while being attentive to the needs around you.
FAQs About Mark 14:7
1. What is the context of Mark 14:7?
Mark 14:7 is part of the story of the Anointing at Bethany, where a woman anoints Jesus with expensive perfume. The disciples criticize her for not selling the perfume to help the poor, but Jesus defends her actions, explaining that she’s preparing Him for His burial and emphasizing the importance of recognizing the unique moment of His presence.
2. Does Mark 14:7 suggest that helping the poor is not important?
No, Mark 14:7 doesn’t suggest that helping the poor is unimportant. Jesus acknowledges that the poor will always be present and that we should continually do good for them. His statement highlights the ongoing responsibility to care for the poor while also recognizing the unique significance of His presence and the act of anointing.
3. How does Mark 14:7 relate to the Old Testament?
Mark 14:7 echoes Deuteronomy 15:11, which states that there will always be poor people in the land and commands generosity towards them. This connection reinforces the idea that poverty is a persistent reality, and continuous charity is a central aspect of a righteous life.
4. Why did Jesus say, “But you will not always have me”?
Jesus said this to highlight the unique and limited time His disciples had with Him before His crucifixion. The act of anointing by Mary was preparing Him for His burial, marking a significant and sacred moment in His ministry.
5. How can we balance helping the poor and recognizing special moments, as suggested by Mark 14:7?
Balancing these aspects involves being continuously attentive to the needs of the poor through ongoing acts of charity while also being open to recognizing and participating in unique and significant moments of devotion and service. It’s about living a life of generosity and awareness.
6. What does the anointing of Jesus signify in the Jewish tradition?
In Jewish tradition, anointing someone with oil or perfume signifies honor, consecration, and preparation. It was often done for kings, prophets, and priests. In the context of Jesus, Mary’s anointing was a profound act of love and respect, symbolically preparing Him for His impending death and burial.
7. How can I apply the teachings of Mark 14:7 in my daily life?
You can apply the teachings by:
- Being Generous: Continuously look for ways to help the poor and needy in your community.
- Recognizing Moments of Devotion: Appreciate and participate in unique acts of love and service when they arise.
- Balancing Actions: Strive to balance everyday acts of kindness with recognizing and honoring special moments.
8. Does Mark 14:7 mean we should prioritize certain actions over helping the poor?
Mark 14:7 doesn’t suggest prioritizing one over the other but rather highlights the need to do both. Helping the poor should be a constant part of our lives, while recognizing and honoring special moments, like the anointing of Jesus, is also important.
9. How does Jesus’ teaching in Mark 14:7 align with His other teachings about the poor?
Jesus consistently teaches the importance of helping the poor throughout the Gospels. Mark 14:7 aligns with His broader message by acknowledging the persistent presence of poverty and encouraging continuous acts of kindness, while also highlighting the significance of recognizing special, sacred moments.
10. What is the significance of the expensive perfume used in the anointing?
The perfume, made of pure nard, was very costly and represented a significant sacrifice. Its use in anointing Jesus symbolized deep respect, love, and the recognition of His impending death. This act highlighted both the value of Jesus’ presence and the importance of honoring Him in a unique and profound way.
