Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury.
Lest we think that Jesus doesn't care about our giving habits, our generous nature, let this verse dispel those thoughts. Jesus sat down right where the offerings were put and watched...
In fact, Jesus used this occasion as a teaching moment for His disciples. He wanted to show them a few things. First Jesus pointed out how the rich give from their wealth. There was not lots of sacrifice involved. I don't think he was putting them down for their actions as much as he was elevating the gift the poor woman gave. Jesus pointed out that she gave all, didn't hold back or calculate how much she could afford to put into the offerings.
This widow gave all she had to live on, where if we are honest with ourselves, we give like the rich-- from our wealth. We tithe, but often stop there. We are expected to tithe 10%, but like the widow, we get God's attention when we go even further. Perhaps that is where the phrase, "give til it hurts," has its roots.
So what is the lesson here? Why is it difficult to talk about money, why is this topic such a stumbling block for those who are not yet in a relationship with Jesus? Because it is a heart thing. When our hearts are in line with Jesus, when we walk in faith believing Jesus will provide for all our needs, giving isn't such a big issue. It is part of the Christian’s walk.
This walk often begins with baby-steps. First 1% then maybe 5% and so on. We all begin somewhere…it is just important that we begin.
No comments:
Post a Comment