Mark 12:38-44 (NRSV)
Read Mark 12:38-44 on biblegateway.com
Verse 38As he taught, he said, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, Verse 39and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! Verse 40They devour widows' houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation."
Verse 41He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. Verse 42A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. Verse 43Then he called his disciples and said to them, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. Verse 44For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on."
Devotion
Have you ever wondered, “What do I have to offer to God?” Do you feel like there is not enough? Do you feel like you are not enough? I wonder what the widow thought as she offered her two coins. We will never know if she felt inadequate, or if she was simply grateful that she had the two coins to give.
The widow had every reason not to give. Yet, she freely and graciously gave all she had. Her act of giving was an act of worship. Her giving all she had was proclaiming her faith and commitment to God above all else.
What are we holding on to that keeps us from opening our hands and giving? May we open our hearts and hands freely, giving all that we are and have, knowing we are enough. From the widow we learn to trust and hope in the abundance of God even during times of uncertainty.
Prayer
God whose giving knows no ending, thank you for the many ways you provide, care, teach, forgive, and love us. May we daily offer all that we have to you. Use us to build your kingdom of compassion and justice. Amen.
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