Short and Sweet Nourishment for the Soul
41 Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. 42 Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. 43 Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. 44 For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.
Mark 12:41-44
She gave everything.
Many would say the widow’s story is one of generosity. Undoubtedly, the nameless widow was generous. But I think more than generosity, the widow’s story is about faith; not faith in the church or faith in neighbors, but faith in the Savior. Her faith was big, so her gift was big. Even when giving something meant giving everything, she gave. Her bank account was small, but her faith beyond measure.
Widow, by the Greek definition, refers to elderly “widows” whom the synagogue supports. Note to reader: the poor widow had two mites (3/8 of a cent) to live on. Makes one wonder about synagogue support. However, the widow gave everything to a synagogue who gave her, by all appearances, nothing. Ironically, Jesus praises her gift, but lets slide the gifts of the rich. She gave … they made contributions. There’s a difference. Giving: gut level stuff – blood, sweat and tears. Contributions: skin deep – neat, tidy, and easy.
Rich/poor … wealthy/widows … millions/mites.
Isn’t it wonderful that the widow’s greatest gift came during the season of her greatest need? And her Savior saw. He knew her need and her gift. He was right there, within reach when she gave her gift. Did she know? … did her heart burn inside her as she gave her gift?
Why do we give anything? … or better yet, why don’t we give everything? Because our faith is small. The widow’s gift gives us great hope that we can give out of our poverty and smallness. I have given something, I have given nothing, but I have never given everything. Maybe it is only when we are deeply needy that we truly give.
Action Points:
- What is God calling you to give?
- What have you already given, but still need to give more … everything?
- Pray for God to give you the courage to give your two small coins. Ask Him to multiply them and use them for His kingdom.
Life is sweet.
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