The Widow

Yes, I’m referring to the two half-penny wielding woman that Jesus called attention to in Mark 12 that has since left theologians and philosophers scratching their heads. What earthly sense does it make to put all you have in the offering when you have so little to offer anyway? She contributed enough to have a laborer polish a step in the temple. Maybe she should have polished the step herself and kept her two half-pennies for a piece of bread (as an aside Jesus uses the amount of her offering to express how little it really is in Matthew 10 when he refers to the insignificance of two sparrows falling to the ground but that even that is in the Father’s will). Certainly holding on to it would have been better than giving it away. Jesus wouldn’t want you to put yourself into trouble like that, would he?
Would he?
While we do start to shift into theological territory with that last question isn’t this near the essence of many of God’s teachings about money? It is more than just a worldly item. It can point to the gaps and disconnects in our hearts. Specifically, the disconnect between what we believe and how we think and live. I believe that we should be stewards and that God is the owner but I act and think like I am the owner.
However, that is not the only challenging element in studying the passage, Jesus also mentions that the widow “put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box.” Really? More than the rich men who “put in large sums?” That’s what Jesus says. Certainly she gave more in percentage than the rich men but didn’t she also then have to rely on Christ to meet her imminent physical needs? I think she gave more because of her faith.
When we evaluate offerings in our lives we often value them by their size, sacrifice, or impact. Perhaps we should be evaluating them based on our faith and obedience to God. After all, Jesus is about life, love, and knowing the Father rather than money, status, or influence.
Even after meditating on this passage and wrestling with the application I can always rest on Romans 8:28- that God will work all things together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purpose. I also know that when something seems really strange and a big risk that I can always ask God. First and foremost pray. Then, Lord willing, be obedient!