“but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.” - LK 21:4

 

Today’s Gospel points out a very simple lesson.  What is the intention behind our acts?  Jesus tells us that this is an important understanding for each of us.  There is a need for insight, an awareness to the motive that is in our hearts regarding each and every action of ours.  Jesus taught that real giving must come from the heart.  True love doesn’t calculate, it gives generously.

 

But a gift given out of love, with a spirit of generosity and sacrifice, is precious. The amount or size of the gift doesn't matter as much as the cost to the giver. The poor widow could have kept one of her coins, but instead she recklessly gave away all she had! Jesus praised someone who gave barely a penny, an insignificant sum.  Why? Because it was everything she had, her whole living.  What words would Jesus say regarding what is in our hearts when we give?  Not just to the Church but when we do everything, work, school, play and in our own Domestic Church.

 

Jesus commended the widow for what she put into the temple treasury because in so doing she gave her whole life. This is the exact translation of Luke 21:4. The widow’s two coins were not just all her money but a true symbol of her whole life. The widow’s offering was a statement concerning her total love for God.

 

What we have to offer may look very small and not worth much, but if we put all we have at the Lord's disposal, no matter how insignificant it may seem, then God can do with it and with us what is beyond our reckoning. Yesterday we heard Jesus talk about separating the sheep from the goats.  None of us are promised tomorrow, so where do we stand?  Do we offer out of love and gratitude for what God has already given to us?  

 

"Lord Jesus, your love knows no bounds and you give without measure. All that I have comes from you. May I give freely and generously in gratitude for all that you have given to me. Take my life and all that I possess - my gifts, talents, time and resources - and use them as you see fit for your glory."

 

May God’s Grace and Blessings Always be with you and yours!!  Our Lady of Guadalupe – Pray for us!!

 

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Bob

St. Clare of Assisi

Houston, TX