Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.” Mark 12:41-44 NLT


The Widows Gift

Do you ever feel like you have nothing to offer?

I can only imagine how the widow felt that day in the Temple, watching the others pass by on their way to the collection box, dressed in their luxurious clothes. As she watched them donate large sums of money to the Temple funds, making sure everyone noticed their generosity, I wouldn't be surprised if the widow felt embarrassed and inadequate.

But instead, she chose to offer what she had.

Quietly she dropped in her two little coins and went on her way - no fuss, no song and dance. It seemed that her offering went unnoticed, and I'm sure she would have preferred it that way.

But Jesus saw, and God sees the heart!

I wonder if she ever found out what He said to his disciples afterwards or how He honored her gift.

Because not only did Jesus see, but He knew.

He knew the struggles she faced - the pain of losing her husband and the extent of her poverty. He knew exactly how much her tiny gift had cost her.

He sees our little offerings and he values them, and the impact can be greater than we'll ever know.

So then, my friends, because of God's great mercy to us I appeal to you: Offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him. This is the true worship that you should offer. (Romans 12:1 GNT)