A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents.
Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them,
"Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more
than all the other contributors to the treasury.
We don't really believe this do we? We measure our success by the impact we can see. The temple wouldn't notice two small coins so how can they matter? But this is not the way of God's economy. God's economy is not about impact but love. It isn't about results or achievements but rather faithfulness. This is hard for us. We'd rather have something to take pride in like the scribes in today's reading. They strike the perfect appearance but really harm themselves and others.
They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext,
recite lengthy prayers.
They will receive a very severe condemnation.
Raphael helps us to understand just how good the genuine love shown in almsgiving can be. He explains, in effect, why the widow gives more than anyone else.
It is better to give alms than to store up gold;
for almsgiving saves one from death and expiates every sin.
For Raphael and for the widow the important key is to put God first. When he is in first place we have a freedom with our possessions that allows us to give to those in need. When God is on the throne in our lives we are able to hold loosely to our pride and possessions.
Thank God! Give him the praise and the glory.
Before all the living,
acknowledge the many good things he has done for you,
by blessing and extolling his name in song.
Honor and proclaim God's deeds,
and do not be slack in praising him.
When we thank God we remember that everything we have is from him. We are not afraid to offer it back to him again.
So now consider what he has done for you,
and praise him with full voice.
Bless the Lord of righteousness,
and exalt the King of ages.
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