The Widow's Offering
41As Jesus was sitting opposite the treasury, He watched the crowd placing money into it. And many rich people put in large amounts. 42 Then one poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which amounted to a small fraction of a denarius. 43 Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more than all the others into the treasury. Mark 12: 41-43
Recently a person walked into our church needing assistance and as I listened to the persons plight, I was more than willing to help. As I dug into my pockets, I found that I only had sixteen dollars. With it being a week away from my payday, this was all the money that I had for the week. If I drove carefully, I would have enough gas and should have enough to get around. Eating lunch at home is a better healthier alternative than eating out.
Knowing that this persons need was greater then mine, I emptied my wallet and gave him everything that I had monetarily until my next paycheck. As I gave the money to the person they looked at me with eyes that were asking "Is this the best you can do"? I explained that this was all the money that I had, and hoped it would be enough for the moment. Rather then a thank you I got a head nod as the person walked out the door. I pray that my meager offering will bless this person and provide the maximum comfort possible.
I tell this story not to pat myself on the back, but to emphasize the fact that if a person is giving you all that they have it is more important then the money itself. Giving all that you have to a greater good is what the woman did when she placed all that she had in the treasury.
Giving everything that we have in love of God and care and concern for others is truly the call of those that proclaim to follow Christ. Those that receive the gift are called to understand the sacrifice that it took in the persons heart, in the fact that they sacrificed so someone else need not sacrifice.
Beloved, when someone extends a blessing to you, make sure to at least inside yourself understand the sacrifice that the person has made for you. When our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ sacrificed himself on the cross, he gave everything of himself for our eternal forgiveness and salvation. It was more then two coins, it was more then sixteen dollars. Jesus gave everything, may we never forget to show appreciation.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16
As we celebrate International Girls Day today, let us always be thankful for the woman and the two coins.
This is the day that the Lord has made, go out and be appreciative for your blessings and give everything that you have for His glory.
Pastor Tim.
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