To pour the oil on Jesus' feet, Mary had to break open the box. The breaking of the alabaster represented Jesus' body being broken for her. The odor of the perfume filled the house. Once the box was broken, the powerful aroma went everywhere. This represented the sweet-smelling odor of completed salvation, or propitiation, which filled heaven and earth at the completion of Jesus' work on the cross.
Worshippers leave a legacy behind which ministers to others for generations to come.
Mary's act leaves an aroma which still lingers today. Martha's service, Lazarus' fellowship, and the crowd's curiosity were all commendable, but Mary's worship is as powerful today as it was then. Second, a worshipper doesn't stop worshipping to serve. Third, a worshipper is very appreciative of God's gifts. As a result, they are great givers.