“This poor widow has put in more than all who have contributed to the treasury.”
Mark 12:38-44
Today’s reading shows a deep contrast between the scribes and Pharisees and the poor widow. The former by their actions were more about performance and recognition. The widow was just herself, doing what she could by giving her last two coins. She was not recognized except by someone like Jesus. This tells us that Jesus is open to receive all of us not withstanding our status, economic worth, or how others perceive us. In God’s kingdom, worth is calculated by sacrifice and love. We are therefore challenged daily to examine why we give and serve. Are we like the scribes or the poor widow?
I am sure many times as we seek to follow God’s will we question ourselves, perhaps recognizing our unworthiness. We must be encouraged by the widow, to have ultimate trust in God’s providence.
Interestingly enough the Gospel also challenges us to reflect on how we treat the most vulnerable members of the society. We must always, as church, seek to offer protection and charity rather than any kind of exploitation.