The Road to Easter: The Widow’s Mite
(NIV) Mark 12:41-44
41 Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. 42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.
43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
After the conflict with the money changers, Jesus returned to Bethany. The next morning, the day we now refer to as Holy Tuesday, Jesus returned to Jerusalem where he told many parables. Following these stories is the account of the Widow’s Mite.
Why is it we fail to understand that the depth of the gospel message can be found in its simplicity? The story, sandwiched between the warning against teachers of the law who do things for show and the prediction of the destruction of Temple, confirms that God is not impressed by outward appearances.
The widow doubtless was unaware she was being observed as she deposited her money, or that her story would become a part of the Holy Scriptures. Yet, we are still moved by one whose faith was greater than her fear.
May our faith today move us beyond our fear as we continue our journey toward the cross and ultimately to the resurrection.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
- Posted in: Blogs
Seeking Holiness 