Reflection on Mark 12:35-24

Scripture
Jesus called His disciples to Him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny portion of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has to live on.”

Observation
Jesus teaches in the Temple. He asks, why do the religious leaders say the Messiah is the Son of David when, in Psalm 110, David calls him “my Lord?” Jesus is not denying that the Messiah is David’s son. but he is stating that he is more than this.

Jesus also warns the people to be aware of the teachers of the law. They love to have the acclaim of people, but they cheat widows of their property.

At the offering box Jesus observes rich people putting in large quantities of money, and a poor widow who puts in two small coins. He tells the disciples that the rich people gave a small portion of their surplus, but the widow gave all that she had.

Application
We can get excited about a businessman who donates a million dollars to the church, but a person who owns very little and gives all that they have is the one who gives sacrificially.

Greatness in the kingdom of God is not measured by dollars given or even by converts made. It is about being faithful with what God has given us.

If you are a billionaire, it must all be surrendered to God. If you are a pensioner, the money that you have must also be surrendered to God.


Prayer
Lord, I thank you for all that you have given me in this life. I yield it back to you to be used for your purposes. Amen.

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