The middle school boys in our discipleship programs recently examined the narrative of Lazarus being raised from the dead. The more we dove into the story, the more I noticed Mary of Bethany’s amazing witness to Christian discipleship. Steeped in grief, Mary falls at Jesus’ feet and cries out, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (Jn 11:32). This is the same Mary who chooses “the better part” in Luke 10 and who anoints Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume in John 12. In all three episodes, Mary is found at the Master’s feet; whether she is captivated by his every word, washing Him with costly nard, or lamenting over her brother’s death, Mary places herself at the feet of Christ.

What does Jesus do during the Last Supper? He places Himself at the feet of those He loves and demonstrates how they ought to do the same. Mary lives this reality and becomes a tremendous witness on how to be a Christian disciple. Through these accounts, we can take away three essential habits of a follower of Christ:

1. Choose the better part. Spending time with the Word is essential. Soaking up whatever He wants to speak is necessary.

2. Lavish the Lord. Pouring out your time, talent, and treasure upon the One who deserves it the most will never be a waste.

3. Bring your suffering to the Lord. He cares and has a desire to share in our daily crosses. Cry out to the Lord when necessary.

Christian discipleship does not amount to being a “good” person; rather, it culminates in an intimate exchange of persons. When we sit at his feet, Jesus’ thirst for us meets our longing for Him. Praise God that Jesus desires this more than we do! And praise God for the witnesses of the men and women who have gone before us to show us it’s possible.