Jesus accused the scribes of devouring the savings of widows and making a show of religion (Mk 12:40). Then He commended a widow for putting "all that she had to live on" into the collection box (Mk 12:44). Why did Jesus commend a widow for helping finance the scribes' misuse of religion to advance themselves?
Jesus does not seem to focus on how the Church uses money as much as on the spirit of the giver. He focuses on the widow and her mite rather than on the scribes or the contributions made by the wealthy. Jesus looks at the power in the widow's faith rather than the sinfulness of the scribes. We're concerned that sinful men will waste our money. But actually, sinful men should be concerned that our offerings given in faith will change their hearts. The power's in the faith, not in the sin. One faith-filled widow can change a sinful Church.
| PRAYER: | Father, may my money explode with power as I give it by faith. |
| PROMISE: | "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on a merited crown awaits me; on that Day the Lord, just Judge that He is, will award it to me – and not only to me, but to all who have looked for His appearing with eager longing." –2 Tm 4:7-8 |
| PRAISE: | Eighty-year-old Betty faithfully prays in adoration every week. |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College