Jesus sat down opposite the treasury
and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury.
Many rich people put in large sums.
A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents.
Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them,
“Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more
than all the other contributors to the treasury.
For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth,
but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had,
her whole livelihood.” Mk 12:41-44
Jesus teaches us something about generosity today. We often look at this Gospel and the rich feel ashamed and the poor triumphant. It goes much deeper than that. Our hearts desire heaven. When we put lots of “stuff around us” it distracts us from our heavenly home. Bishop Kemme spoke at my parish a couple of weeks ago and spoke about his trip to a poor country. He said that he has never witnessed anywhere such a people of faith, generosity, and gratitude. When a person does not have much they recognize how blessed they are to have anything. Then, they remember what it is like to have nothing and usually give away what they have. This brings great joy not suffering and pain (although pain and suffering are a requirement to love). Those who have much often look down upon those who do not have much. It should be the other way around. Those who do not have much should feel bad for those who have abundance because they are missing out on the joy of giving, a solid trust in God to provide, and thanksgiving when they do receive all that they need. If we have been blessed with much, do not be ashamed, be thankful and share. Don’t pity the poor, but take time to spend time with them and learn from them what it means to have faith, be generous, and truly thankful. This is who Jesus hung out with the most. Last, we can all live in poverty in some area of our life through fasting. When we do, we will recognize our blessings. We too, like the poor widow, can give our whole livelihood.
Today’s challenge: live within your means, share, be generous, spend time with the poor
Become a saint!
Christian YOLO
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