A Little Goes a Long Way

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Key Passage: Mark 12:41-44
Topic: Pride/Humility; Worship/Praise/Worthiness

And he called his disciples to him and said to them, "Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box." (Mark 12:43, ESV)

It's all about attitude and sacrifice. That's the bottom line of this very short story. Now rewind to the beginning.

The setting--a public place within the Temple where the collection box was set up for offerings to God. Jesus found a spot to sit and watch. But He saw much more going on than the average onlooker.

Enter the rich crowd. Everyone knew who they were--there's no reason to hide wealth, is there? The loud clanging of coins was unavoidable. Jesus must have been really impressed with all that money going to the Temple. But was He?

Enter a poor widow--plain and forgettable. She dropped two mites, the equivalent of a fraction of a penny. No heads turned, except for one--the only one that mattered.

Jesus made a bold statement when he said the widow's small offering was worth more than the extravagant contributions from the wealthy. Why? Because of her attitude and sacrifice.

The "why" of giving is much more important than what is given. This poor woman sacrificed a lot in her worship and love of God. That's how we're to give--out of faith and with an attitude of worship. Doing it for show or to gain points from others won't cut it.

Reckless abandon is a beautiful thing. When people allow purpose, passion and obedience to drive them, an impact is made and legacies are left.

Think about what you can give to Jesus. It doesn't have to be the most impressive amount of money or amazing talent. Jesus only asks for willing hearts to give out of what's been given to them by Him.




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