November 9th Reflection by Bill Lynch

Mark 12:38-44

Jesus Denounces the Scribes

 As he taught, he said, ‘Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the market-places, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honour at banquets! They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.’

The Widow’s Offering

 He 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.’

Reflection
I didn't have one bit of value in God's Kingdom and the same went for my partner. Even here on earth I only carried the smallest of value for purchasing. But in another respect, my partner and me had all the value in heaven and earth. We were all there was to be and all that needed to be for our owner.

She approached one of the trumpet shaped chests and tossed me and my partner in. A couple pieces of copper, each one of us the smallest copper coin around. But Jesus was impressed with what this lady had done. You see, we were all she had. This lady gave all to the treasury.

God sent Jesus to give his all as well. Jesus gave his life and shed his blood so that all people would be saved. As well, all humans should give all to God for what they have received from God. Humans received all from God and all is given in return. Not out of any need to earn God's love, but because of God's love and salvation. In giving all to God and to one another, we show the love that God has for us through Jesus. Don't give out of the abundance, but give rather due to the abundance.

That day we were only worth about a penny. But that day we were worth all the love in the world that this lady showed for God. Thanks be to God!

Prayer
It's a hard lesson. It's a simple lesson. As I part with my all, Lord, may I emulate your love for you and for those you give to me this day... tomorrow... and forever. --- Amen