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The Poor Widow


Gospel
Luke 21:1-4
The widow's mite

As Jesus looked up, he saw rich people putting their offerings into the treasury; then he happened to notice a poverty-stricken widow putting in two small coins, and he said, ‘I tell you truly, this poor widow has put in more than any of them; for these have all contributed money they had over, but she from the little she had has put in all she had to live on.’

Reflection
​The story of the widow's mite is a powerful lesson that challenges the way we measure generosity. Jesus wasn't impressed by the amount of the wealthy people's gifts; he was impressed by the measure of the widow's sacrifice. The rich gave from their surplus—an act that required little to no personal cost. The widow, however, gave everything she had to live on, demonstrating a radical trust in God and a love that completely eclipsed her own need for security.  Jesus teaches us that true giving is not about the size of the donation, but the size of the sacrifice and the depth of the heart from which it comes. It reminds us that God values quality of devotion over quantity of contribution.

​Question for Reflection
​What "two small coins"—be it time, talent, or treasure—am I holding back from God or others out of a fear of not having enough, and what would it look like to give it away with complete trust?

​Short Prayer
​Heavenly Father,
Open our eyes to see as you see, valuing the heart of the giver over the size of the gift. Give us the courage of the poor widow, that we may be willing to offer you our whole lives—our time, our resources, and our trust—even when it feels like all we have. Help us to give generously and without fear, knowing that your provision is always enough. Amen.
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