“The Widow’s Mites”

Tuesday, August 29, 2023

for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood." (Mark 12:44)

The story here recorded in Mark’s gospel is one of the most heart-warming in all of Scripture.  As Jesus watched the people putting money into the offering box, a poor widow was the one who gained his approval.  We have a touching picture of a lonely widow whose heart was sad and her mean scanty, finding strength and consolation in contributing to the temple.  Her remarkable action has become a model for disciples of Christ.

The objective amount was basically ignored by Jesus.  He was not concerned with the sum, but with the sacrifice.  This widow gave in all that she had, her whole livelihood.  In contrast many rich people put in large sums, but made no real sacrifice.   They gave out of abundance, but not out of want.  The widow’s gift was a heroic act of faith.  It was a demonstration of how much the worship of God meant to her.

This widow’s gift was approved because it was an offering full of love for God.  She demonstrated her gratitude to God, and her utmost confidence in Him to provide the daily needs.  Two mites were of little importance to the treasury, but of great importance to her.

It is a pleasure to give to those we love and value.  A young girl gives up her career and fortune for the future of her husband and the spiritual well-being of her children.  A father will find satisfaction in knowing he has given his best to his family even though he has worn out shoes.  A brother or sister in Christ will stay up until late into the night to share the gospel with a lost soul or to lift the burden of a saint.  

Too often we lose sight of the blessing because the service is too burdensome  and demands too much effort.  Thus, we restrain from indulgence in Christ-like service.  May we put into the treasury our wealth, talents, and prayers.  None go unnoticed by God.  Let us seek to have the spirit of this widow who knew God could do without the gift, but also knew that her heart could not be satisfied without her sacrifice.

By George Slover

Share