If the power of the Gospel is to be fully realized in the life of a believer, then that believer must first be emptied. The principle of the Gospel is always "first death, then life." Mary of Bethany took her most precious possession, the alabaster of spikenard, and poured it out upon Jesus’ feet. Those near grumbled that the cost of such a precious treasure was wasted in that fashion, but Jesus responded by declaring that such an act was a clear enunciation of the Gospel life. Taking on the life of Jesus Christ comes with a stiff cost - it means giving up everything. But let's not forget the fact that in giving up everything we are getting the fullness of life in Jesus Christ.