The Gospel of Mark: The Poor Widow

(Jesus) sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. Then he called his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.” ~ Mark 12:41-44



I want to start this off by noting that Jesus isn't condemning the rich people who put in their large sums. 

But he definitely is putting their contribution right next to the poor widow's in comparison, isn't he?

It's important to note where this passage comes. We hear it directly after Jesus has called out the false piety of the scribes and how they "devour" widow's houses.

Well, here is one of those widows who has been devoured.

This is an example of the theme that has been running all throughout Mark: the greatest among us are the least among us.

The greatest among us is like a child.

The last shall be first.

Whenever Jesus gives examples of this to his disciples, who quite frankly never seem to get it, he is no more condemning than he is here.  

But he nevertheless repeats the message again.

And again.

And again.

Maybe he thinks it's an important one.

Holy God, thank you for the gospel - the good news - of your Son. Open my mind and heart to this good news and enliven me with your Spirit of servanthood that I might share this good news with a world in need. Amen


Engagement Questions:


What do we mean when we say "give it your all?" Have you ever thought of that in terms of wealth? What does it mean to give out of abundance vs. out of poverty?

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