Our sense of smell is powerful. It can attract us to something or repel us from it. It can excite or inhibit us. Most of all, it can deeply embed a memory and call it back powerfully to the surface of our emotions when the fragrance reappears. The situation in today's verses is one that will be anchored in the memory of all who were present. This story would be told and re-told by them every time they caught even the faintest whiff of the same aroma. But more than just the literal fragrance, they would remember the beautiful aroma of extravagant love demonstrated by Mary. When we truly know that Jesus loves us and that he ransoms those we love from death, how can we not be extravagant in our display of love for Jesus? Let's be like Mary who was more concerned to display her love extravagantly for Jesus and less concerned about the criticism of those around her!