Sacrificial Giving

Sacrificial Giving

The Woman Who Gave Two Small Coins

Read: Mark 12:41-44

Darlene fought back tears as she watched the images of the hurricane-ravaged town. Then she thought of the check she’d written earlier that evening. A coworker was collecting money to fill a truck with basic supplies that he planned to drive down. As a single mom, Darlene was barely making ends meet, but she was determined to help. With input from her three children, she listed ways that the family could cut back on expenses. Now, as Darlene watched the news, she felt doubtful. The needs were so great—would her small contribution make any difference?

The widow in Mark 12 made what seemed like a negligible contribution. Her two pieces of copper were the smallest Jewish coins, each worth about an eighth of a cent in our money. She knew the amount wouldn’t go very far in the upkeep of the Temple, but she found joy in the act of giving. While many of the rich people made sure that others saw their large gifts, this poverty-stricken widow tried to slip her coins in unnoticed, trusting that God would accept her offering even if others would not appreciate it. Jesus saw her sacrifice and said that her gift was worth more than any of the others. This woman gave all she had, while the rich gave only a small portion of their surplus.

God is more interested in our attitude toward giving than in the amount. He’s not impressed if we give a tiny percentage of our wealth while keeping most of it for our own pleasure. It also doesn’t mean much if we give solely out of a sense of obligation. When we give of our resources out of love and gratitude, he can multiply any amount to accomplish his purposes—even if it’s worth less than a penny in the world’s eyes.

You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.”

2 Corinthians 9:7