The Smallest Greatest Gift

“He said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; … she, out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.’”

Often in Scripture Jesus reminds us to focus on heavenly truth. In the verses just prior to today’s reading, our Lord warned people against pride that struts in fancy robes and devours widows’ homes. Self-righteousness oppresses those who appear undeserving.

In Luke 21:1-4, Jesus looked up and saw gifts being placed in the receptacle in the Temple forecourt, where people gave free will offerings. Imagine the contrast between a powerless widow and wealthy people approaching this offering box. In a priceless teaching moment, Jesus drew attention to the two small copper coins given by the widow, probably worth 1/64 of that day’s working wage.

This reminds me of another story of a widow, found in 1 Kings 17. This widow baked her last loaf of bread for the prophet Elijah because he promised the Lord would provide for her. Likewise, the widow in today’s passage gave all she had. The wealthy gave what they would not miss, whereas she gave out of dependence on, and gratitude for, the Lord.

How do I measure my gifts to the Church? Do I carefully calculate just a tithe, so I can still make ends meet? Do I cheerfully and joyfully give time, talent, and money, trusting that I cannot out-give God’s provision? Finally, is my trust in myself to meet my needs, or in my Loving Father?

Truly, there have been times I could answer “yes” to each. Chances are, you have been there also. May God transform our minds and deepen our faith during this Holy Week, that we will completely trust him with all that we have. May we realize our abundance of blessings and become generous with our gifts.

Jesus, lead us to depend on you alone to meet our needs, possessing humble hearts to give. Amen.

TRACEY THOMAS
Master of Divinity Student
Early, Texas