The Pulpit Commentary - Matthew 26:12
On my body, she did it for my burial ( προ Ì ς το Ì ἐνταφια ì σαι με , to prepare me for burial ) . This doubtless was in some sort her intention (see on Matthew 26:10 ). She desired to offer what she could ( Mark 14:8 ) of the offices and attentions due to the corpse of a beloved and revered Friend. Christ interpreted her act, and gave it a solemn significance. By this effusion of the precious unguent site anticipated the embalming of the Lord's body; she showed... read more
The Pulpit Commentary - Matthew 26:11
Ye have the poor always with you. St. Mark adds, "and whensoever ye will ye may do them good." This was in strict accordance with the old Law: "The poor shall never cease out of the land; therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy in thy land" ( Deuteronomy 15:11 ). The existence of poor gives scope for the exercise of the graces of charity, benevolence, and self-denial; and such opportunities will never be wanting... read more