Contrasts

 (Note: a friend came to visit just as I was about to compose this Slice of  Daily Bread on Saturday...Receive it as a a bonus with today's slice.)

Mark 12:38-44

Jesus Denounces the Scribes

³⁸ As he taught, he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, ³⁹ and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! ⁴⁰ They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”

The Widow’s Offering

⁴¹ He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. ⁴² A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. ⁴³ Then he called his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. ⁴⁴ For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

What a striking contrast between the arrogant behavior of the scribes and the humble generosity of the widow! Which description fits me?  Which would I not want?  Which would I prefer?  It's so easy to slip into the behavior of the scribes, and not easy to adopt the behavior of the widow! What  would be the equivalent of my "last two coins?"  Or to remove it from the money level, to my time, my presence, my "listening ear", my talents, my advice, or my experience?  What pleases God is my willingness and ability to give what I treasure the most. May the example of this poor widow inspire me to be as generous as I can.

Bro. Rene