April 6th, Sermon & Ministry Resources

"The Fragrance of Devotion" (John 12:1-8)

Lectionary Readings — Fifth Sunday in Lent — April 6, 2025

Isaiah 43:16-21; Psalm 126; Philippians 3:4b-14; John 12:1-8

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Call to Worship (based on John 12:1-8)

Leader: We gather today to worship the One who is worthy of our very best.

People: Like Mary, we bring our gifts, our love, and our devotion to Jesus.

Leader: In this season of Lent, we recognize the sacrifice that lies ahead.

People: We come to honor Christ, who gave himself completely for us.

Leader: Some may question our extravagant worship, but Jesus welcomes our devotion.

People: The fragrance of our praise fills this place as we pour out our hearts.

Leader: Let us not hold back in our worship, for the time we have with Jesus is precious.

People: We surrender our pride and offer our most valuable treasures to Him.

Leader: In this sacred moment, may our worship be as pure as Mary's offering.

All: We come to worship with open hearts, holding nothing back from the One who gave everything for us.

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Opening Prayer (based on Isaiah 43:16-21)

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father,

As we gather on this Fifth Sunday in Lent, we come before you with thankful hearts. You are the God who makes paths through impossible situations, just as you made a way through the sea for your people long ago.

During this Lenten season, we have been reflecting on our need for you and preparing our hearts for the celebration of Christ's resurrection. As we journey through these final weeks of Lent, remind us that you are doing something new in our midst. Help us to recognize your work even when it's unexpected. You promise to provide for us, creating streams in the desert places of our lives when we need refreshment.

This morning, we lift up the members of our church family to you. We pray for those who are facing illness and physical challenges, that you would bring healing and strength. We ask for your comfort for those who are grieving losses or walking through seasons of sorrow. For those struggling with doubt or spiritual dryness, may they experience the rivers in the desert that you promise in this Scripture.

We also pray for those carrying heavy burdens at work or home, that you would sustain them. For our young people navigating the challenges of growing up, grant them wisdom and protection. For our elderly members, provide companionship and purpose.

God, just as you led your people through the wilderness long ago, lead us through this Lenten journey. Open our eyes to see the new opportunities you're placing before us as a congregation. Give us the courage to follow where you lead, even when the path seems unclear. Help us to work together as your people, supporting one another in love.

We thank you for allowing us to be your people. May our lives and our church bring honor to your name as we share the story of your faithfulness with our community.

We pray this in Jesus' name, Amen.

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Sermon Outline: [NOTE to Paid subscribers — scroll down for the full manuscript sermon].

[Note: All Scripture is taken from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.]

Sermon Outline: "The Fragrance of Devotion" (John 12:1-8)

Introduction:

• Setting: Bethany, six days before Passover, after the raising of Lazarus

• A dinner hosted for Jesus with Martha serving, Lazarus present, and Mary at Jesus' feet

• Mary's extravagant act of devotion contrasted with Judas's criticism

• This passage reveals different responses to Jesus as he approaches the cross

I. Devotion - Mary's Sacrificial Act (John 12:3)

A. Costly offering - a pound of pure nard worth a year's wages

B. Humble posture - anointing Jesus' feet

C. Complete surrender - using her hair to wipe his feet D.

Pervasive impact - the fragrance filled the entire house

II. Deception - Judas's Selfish Response (John 12:4-6)

A. Complaint about waste

B. Calculation of monetary value

C. Concealment of true motives

D. Corruption of heart revealed

III. Defense - Jesus's Powerful Affirmation (John 12:7-8)

A. Protection of Mary from criticism

B. Perspective on priorities

C. Prophecy about his coming burial

D. Principle about timing and opportunity

IV. Direction - Our Response Today

A. Determine what is most valuable to us

B. Demonstrate our devotion tangibly

C. Disregard criticism when honoring Christ

D. Discern the unique moments God gives us

Conclusion:

1. Where do you see yourself in this story?

2. What does this teach us about worship?

3. Our invitation is twofold: To pour out our best for Christ and to recognize the limited time we have to honor him.

4. Final Challenge: What is your alabaster jar? What precious thing is God asking you to surrender in devotion to him?

Full Manuscript Sermon Below for Paid Subscribers