Jesus was in the temple near the treasury where people gave their offerings. He saw a widow put in two copper coins and said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in all she had to live on” (Mark 12:42).
Widows during Jesus’ time on earth did not have Social Security or dividends or help from the community. Their position was very desperate, but not for this widow. Her hope was in God, her Provider, and He did not disappoint her.
God spoke of widows through the prophet Isaiah: “Do not be afraid; you will not be put to shame . . . For your Maker is your husband–the Almighty is His name–the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer” (Isaiah 54:4-5).
THINK ABOUT IT
Only these few words were told about this woman, but she set an example for us to follow: When we go through tough times, they are not times to withhold our tithes and offerings. Like the widow, we give in faith, knowing God is our Provider.
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you” (Luke 6:38). This is a principle we can rely on.
PRAY ABOUT IT
Thank you, Lord, for examples in the Bible of people who have experienced hard times and did the right thing. Help us to trust you in times of loss and despair. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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