Coin collection is a hobby that people have enjoyed for many centuries. Collectors spend hundreds of dollars in the process of acquiring the rarest, most unique coins. But did you know that there was a set of coins in an offering basket that caught heaven’s attention?
Mark 12:42-44 – But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.
Window into Widows Life
In ancient Israel, widows faced neglect and mistreatment and had no one to plead their case. Acts 6 recounts discrimination against a group of widows during food distribution. Yet, the Bible imparts valuable lessons through widows’ lives, revealing God’s heart through humble members of society.
Clinking of the Coins
In the temple courtyard, there were 13 trumpet-shaped collection chambers, each designated for different offerings. Seated opposite these receptacles, Jesus keenly observes the varied ways in which people contribute. People joyfully dropped money into the thirteen boxes, relishing the rhythmic cascading sound of coins, often attracting positive attention and approving glances of others.
Mighty Mites
Verse 42 says: “Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites.” A mite is the smallest denomination in Jewish currency, worth only one-eighth of a cent. Though her quarter cent offering was practically worthless in human eyes, this poor woman’s offering caught the eyes of the Master! Contrary to our inclination to applaud famous givers, heaven recognizes the profound sacrifice made by a humble widow with her two small coins.
Portion versus Proportion
The widow’s offering held special significance as she gave everything she had. Although the portion of her monetary contribution might not have surpassed others, Jesus acknowledged it as MORE because of the depth of her sacrifice. While others gave without sacrifice, she offered her all, making her portion proportionally greater in the eyes of the Lord.
More than Money
Beyond finances, this principle extends to every aspect of our service to the Lord. Key lessons from this widow include:
- Faith: Facing an uncertain future without any other tangible support, and risking her livelihood, this woman placed unwavering faith in God. She trusted in His ability to supple her needs. Perhaps inspired by the biblical account of the widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17:7-16), her act of giving became a testament to her steadfast belief in God’s providence.
- Sacrifice: Giving when you have very little is a daunting task, yet this woman did not withhold her last two copper coins from the Lord. Her sacrificial act mirrors God’s ultimate sacrifice for us: Jesus. God values offerings that involve true sacrifice, a principle King David understood very well.
In 1 Chronicles 21:24 King David insists on buying the plot for sacrifice for full price. He declares that he will not offer burnt offerings that come without a cost or sacrifice on his part.
Personal Story
While personal stories aren’t a regular feature in my blogs, this passage stirred memories of my maternal grandmother from the land of Kerala, India. Widowed at 45, she, a single mother of six, placed her trust in the Lord. Despite limited resources, she selflessly shared food with those in need, sometimes leaving her own children hungry. The Lord took note of this, blessing her with the opportunity for all her children to come to America. She lived in this land for over 27 years, witnessing the goodness of the Lord to her children and grandchildren until she passed away at the age of 93.
Life Application
Let us never underestimate the offering, whether it’s our finances, services, talents, or worship. Embrace the call to wholeheartedly give to the Lord. Understand that He sees the sincerity in your sacrifice despite any perceived limitations or weaknesses on our part. Hebrews 6:10 says: God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.
So, let’s make a decision that we will sacrificially give Him our time, our resources, and our wealth. He is a God who is faithful to His Word.
Dew Drops of Manna 