But God, I Don’t Have Much

To serve God, you don’t need much.

Two copper coins fell from her hand into the collection basket. She turned to leave the temple knowing she had given everything. Those coins were all she had.

According to Mark's account, she was one of many in the crowd. She may have thought she was invisible, but the most important person was watching her.

Jesus took notice. He was able to look straight into her heart.

He was so pleased by her actions, He gathered His disciples to turn it into a teachable moment. If it was an important lesson for the disciples, we must pay close attention.

Mark 12:43-44 (NKJV), Jesus said to His disciples:
“Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.”

What can we take away?

She gave expecting nothing in return.

She wasn’t looking for praise. She wasn’t looking for pity. She wasn’t expecting someone to see her small gift and give her a handout.

She gave out of desire, not obligation.

No one forced her to give both coins. She could’ve kept one. Her benevolence came from her longing to serve God.

Her gift was a sacrifice.

Sacrifice means giving up something you value for the sake of others. Offering what you have to someone else requires generosity.

Whatever we are giving to God, what is it costing us?

Are we giving so little of our time, talent, or money that it’s of little consequence?

You may be thinking,

But I don’t have much to offer.

But I have no special abilities.

But I am already so busy, I don’t have time.

It’s not about the quantity or quality, it’s about the willingness to give what we have in service to Him.

Let’s take time today to consider what gifts we want to give God and what sacrifices we are willing to make for Him.

Going along with today’s theme, here’s a meaningful song:
Anything That Costs Me Nothing