The Widow’s Offering by Justin March
“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. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything-all she had to live on.” Mark 12:41-44
There must be something in the water because I cannot stop writing about giving. The subject has me thinking deeply about how my family and I spend our resources, and I often wonder if what we share really makes a difference. But as I ponder this part of our lives, and as I think about the financial obligation to give, I am witnessing acts that entail much more than just money.
Over the last several years, I have had the pleasure to get to know some families at church and really dive into what makes them tick. Sometimes we do not have much in common, but there are other times when our passions intertwine. And for those of you that know me well, meeting people and connecting with their world, is one of my favorite parts in life. It brings me joy, it fills my cup, and I always feel blessed when I get the opportunity to spend time with others.
I have so many stories I could share about the people and families I have been privileged to encounter, but this is one that really ties into my thoughts around the subject of giving. When our oldest daughter, Caya, was going through confirmation a little over a decade ago, I met a gentleman who had a child that was traveling the same journey. While we waited for our loved ones, we would attend adult education classes and got to know one another through some amazing conversations. I always found him to be thought provoking, pleasant, and most of all, extremely giving. He may not know the influence he has had on my family and I, but it is a testament to how giving comes down to so much more than money.
With the opportunity to travel the confirmation road together, a relationship was started that has grown more than I could have ever imagined. We have spent Thursday nights together, we attended a One Year to Live Retreat, he became our son’s mentor, and he even hooked me up with the resources needed to bring “Walking Wet” to fruition. The giving acts portrayed by this dear friend are something that could never be paid back, but they have inspired me to share all I am with all those God brings into my life.
I share this story because I want you to think about how a simple touch, in this life, can blossom into something so wonderful. My encounter, so many years ago, has not only solidified a friendship that I cherish, but has spurned branches that have reached his wife, his family, and his network of friends. And when I think about all the ways we can give to others, I am reminded that when the roots run deep in the giving tree of life, it is then that God can bear his fruit so it can be shared with you and me.
As we enter the season of Advent, I will be thinking about all the ways I can give. I will pray that the giving comes not from obligation, but from a place of love and hope. I will be reminded that the financial gifts will be appreciated, but that the sharing of time and talents will be as well. And as my cup overflows with the joy of spending time with those I care about, I will be thinking about how God’s gift of sending his only son to save the world is the fuel I need to give in every way possible.
Thank you for all the ways you have given to me and my family. We are humbled by your generosity, your friendship, and your love. And may God bless you this holiday season as you find ways to share his grace, spread his messages, and bring hope to all those you encounter. You may not think that the simple act of giving makes a difference, but every smile, every embrace, and every act of kindness does not go un-noticed. Just like the poor widow at the temple, sometimes it is the smallest gifts that have the largest impact. All you need to do is give!
