SEP 5

Luke 21:1-4
Memorise 2 Corinthians 9:7
“this poor widow hath cast in more than they all...”

Imagine you and I were there at the temple at that time of Luke 21:1-4. The eyes of some of the people there would be drawn to the spectacle of the rich casting their gifts into the treasury. Their eyes would widen at the glimmer and beauty of all that gold and silver, and their hearts would marvel at the largesse of these rich men. As the rich walk pass their direction, these people might respectfully give way for the rich to pass, probably giving a little bow or nod of respect as they come near. Most probably would not notice the woman going up to the same treasury and casting something very small in contrast; even if they did, they might think this woman stingy and miserly and stare at her in disdain. (A mite was the smallest coin in those days, and the size of the mite is about the size of our thumbnail). Unlike most of the people that day, Jesus noticed her, and had great respect for her, far more than the rich man. Jesus turned to his disciples and told them that she a poor widow, and she had cast in all she possessed, and she was left with nothing at all. She was not foolish in doing so, but in contrast she was totally trusting God to provide for her after she gave her all to Him. What amazing faith! Jesus thus valued that offering far more than the offerings of the rich men.

In Singapore, many are attracted to the attractive buildings of the mega- churches, funded largely by many rich men who attend such churches, and some might even come just to meet such rich men! In contrast, many walk past the ordinary looking buildings of the small churches, and assume the more run down the church, the less God had blessed it! In the same way, in our own church, we might give our deepest respect to those members who openly give rich gifts to missions and other causes, and shun those who are clearly poor and shabbily dressed. It is so easy for us to respect riches and despise poverty. But realise that to do so, is to think like the world. We must remember that one’s physical and material possessions are immaterial in the eyes of God. What matters most is one’s godliness and faithfulness. Indeed, we should instead respect those who have faithfully given their all in spite of their poverty. Don’t give more respect to the rich member who ordered a caterer to provide delicious snacks, and look down to the poor member who spent many hours and most of the little money he/she has to provide simple refreshments for you.

Thought: What and who does Jesus value?
Prayer: May I respect faithfulness instead of treasures.