| Devotional Hours with the Bible |
Chapter 18 |
Page 4 |
In Mark’s gospel we have the words, “She is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying.” Many people would have kept that vase sealed up until Jesus was dead, and then have brought it out and emptied it on His body. When a man dies, there is never any lack of kind words about him, or of flowers for His coffin. But Mary’s way was better. Let us bring our alabaster boxes and break them while our friends are alive to enjoy and be refreshed by the perfume. Let us fill the lives of those who are dear to us with sweetness, speaking approving, cheering, heartening words while their hearts can be warmed and blessed by them. The flowers you mean to send for your friends’ coffins send to brighten and sweeten their homes before they go away. Do not keep the alabaster boxes of your love and tenderness sealed up until they are gone. Speak approving, encouraging words while their ears can hear them.
What use for the rope if it be not flung
Till the swimmer’s grasp to the rock has clung?
What help in a comrade’s bugle-blast?
When the peril of Alpine heights is past?
What need that the spurring paean roll?
When the runner is safe beyond the goal?
What worth is eulogy’s blandest breath?
When whispered in ears that are hushed in death?
No, no! If you have but a word of cheer,
Speak it while I am alive to hear.
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