Mary of Bethany is one of the most loved and spiritually rich women in the Bible. Known for her quiet devotion to Jesus, she teaches us what true worship looks like. Mary appears in three key stories in the Gospels, and each time, she is at the feet of Jesus.
1. Mary of Bethany Was the Sister of Martha and Lazarus
Mary lived in the village of Bethany, near Jerusalem. She was the sister of Martha, who is often remembered for being busy serving, and Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead.
John 11:1 (ESV)
"Now a certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha."
2. She Sat at Jesus’ Feet to Listen and Learn
While Martha was busy serving guests, Mary chose to sit and listen to Jesus teach. This moment shows her deep hunger for the Word.
Luke 10:39 (ESV)
"And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching."
Jesus praised her choice.
Luke 10:42 (ESV)
"Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."
3. Mary Anointed Jesus with Expensive Perfume
In a bold act of worship, Mary poured costly perfume on Jesus’ feet and wiped them with her hair. This act was both humble and prophetic, preparing Him for burial.
John 12:3 (ESV)
"Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus..."
4. Her Actions Were Criticized, but Jesus Defended Her
When Mary anointed Jesus, some were upset—especially Judas Iscariot—saying the perfume could have been sold for the poor. But Jesus honored her.
John 12:7 (ESV)
"Jesus said, 'Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial.'"
5. Mary Was Present When Lazarus Was Raised from the Dead
Mary fell at Jesus' feet again, weeping for her brother. Jesus was deeply moved and performed one of His most powerful miracles.
John 11:32–33 (ESV)
"Now when Mary came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet, saying to him, 'Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.'"
6. Her Faith Moved Jesus to Compassion
Mary’s tears showed her strong belief in Jesus’ power. He was so moved by her sorrow that He wept, too.
John 11:35 (ESV)
"Jesus wept."
7. Mary’s Worship Was Costly and Selfless
The perfume Mary used cost nearly a year's wages. She gave something precious because Jesus was worth everything to her.
| Gift | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Pure Nard (John 12:3) | About 300 denarii (~1 year's wages) |
8. Mary Is Always Found at Jesus’ Feet
Every story featuring Mary shows her humbly at Jesus’ feet. It’s a picture of worship, trust, and surrender.
| Event | Scripture | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Listening to Jesus | Luke 10:39 | At His feet |
| Mourning Lazarus' death | John 11:32 | Fell at His feet |
| Anointing with perfume | John 12:3 | Wiped His feet |
9. She Understood Jesus’ Mission Better Than Most
Mary seemed to understand what others missed—that Jesus was going to die. Her anointing prepared Him for burial, a fact Jesus openly shared.
Matthew 26:12 (ESV)
"In pouring this ointment on my body, she has done it to prepare me for burial."
10. Jesus Said Her Story Would Be Told Everywhere
Jesus honored Mary’s love and sacrifice. He said her act of worship would be remembered wherever the Gospel is preached.
Matthew 26:13 (ESV)
"Truly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will also be told in memory of her."
Summary Table: Key Facts About Mary of Bethany
| Fact | Scripture |
|---|---|
| Sister of Martha and Lazarus | John 11:1 |
| Sat at Jesus’ feet to learn | Luke 10:39 |
| Anointed Jesus with perfume | John 12:3 |
| Defended by Jesus | John 12:7 |
| Present at Lazarus’ resurrection | John 11:32–44 |
| Her tears moved Jesus to weep | John 11:35 |
| Gave costly perfume as an offering | John 12:3 |
| Always shown at Jesus’ feet | Multiple verses |
| Understood Jesus’ mission | Matthew 26:12 |
| Her story is remembered worldwide | Matthew 26:13 |
