Scripture: Mark 12:41-42
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.
Thought for the Day: Maria Teresa Palmer wrote an article entitled, “Small Changes” (Christian Century), in which she challenges the traditional view of the above story. The poor widow’s act has traditionally been used by clergy to encourage more sacrificial giving to the church, but Palmer presents a very different view. She says, “In Jesus’ time as today, worshipers were assigned worth according to what they could do for the temple. Prominent teachers of the law were seen as assets, while poor widows were a definite burden.” In many areas of our culture, including the church, we value people differently based upon certain criteria that are not relevant in the Kingdom of God. I hope every gift that is given for the sake of the Kingdom and every giver that gives is honored as a child of God. Additionally, I pray that every gift given is used to preach the news of how every life is of immeasurable value.
Prayer: Give me your heavenly perspective, O Creator, so I can act in ways that bring a heavenly consciousness. Amen.
