Two days after Jesus's triumphant entry into Jerusalem, on a Tuesday, he found himself back at the Temple. This time, he wasn't just teaching; he was observing. Sitting in the Courtyard of the Woman, Jesus watched as people made their contributions to the Temple treasury. Among the bustling crowd, one particular act caught his attention.
In Mark 12:41-44, we read of a poor widow who quietly approached the offering box. While many wealthy individuals flaunted their sizable donations, she humbly dropped in two small copper coins – all she had to live on. Jesus, moved by her sacrificial act, called his disciples and declared that her offering surpassed all others'.
What was it about this widow's gift that impressed Jesus so deeply? There are three things about this woman's gift that we should learn from.
1. Jesus is Impressed When We Give Without Seeking Personal Benefit. The wealthy donors made their contributions with grand gestures, perhaps seeking recognition or validation from others. But the widow gave out of genuine sacrifice, without expecting anything in return. Her gift was an expression of pure devotion, a demonstration of her trust in God's provision. Jesus values giving that stems from a heart fully committed to God, free from any selfish motives or desire for public acclaim. As 2 Chronicles 16:9 reminds us, the Lord sees and honors those whose hearts are devoted to Him.
2. Jesus is Impressed When We Give as an Act of Love. The widow's offering was more than a financial contribution; it was an expression of her love for God. Motivated by her deep reverence and affection for the Almighty, she gave sacrificially, knowing that her gift would further God's work. Similarly, when we give out of love for God and a desire to see His kingdom advanced, we align ourselves with His heart. Our generosity becomes an extension of His love, impacting lives and glorifying His name.
3. Jesus is Impressed When We Love to the Level of Sacrifice. The widow's act of giving wasn't just generous; it was sacrificial. Despite her poverty, she gave everything she had, demonstrating a level of devotion that deeply moved Jesus. Her gift reflected the same sacrificial love that Jesus himself demonstrated on the cross. In 2 Corinthians 8:9, we're reminded of Christ's ultimate sacrifice – though rich, He became poor for our sake, that we might inherit eternal riches. Just as Jesus gave everything for us, so too are we called to love and give sacrificially, trusting in God's provision and grace.