In the midst of writing these posts over the past few days, I ran across this life lesson Jesus taught his disciples. The experience is told in Mark 12.
41Jesus sat down near the collection box in the Temple and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. 42Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. 43Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. 44For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.”
I wrote a few days ago about why Angel Tree and the Food Pantry need makeovers. The friends we serve need to maintain dignity and have the experience of doing something for themselves.
We are among the richest people in the world, and we give accordingly. But just because we can give doesn’t mean we shouldn’t allow someone else the opportunity to give.
The poor widow’s story runs parallel to what Angel Tree, the Food Pantry or a thrift store could accomplish. We can give sacrificially and generously, as we are able. Our friends who are poor can give toward their own well-being as they are able. The two together will be more powerful than each one separately could possibly be.
Consider this week how you can let one of our friends who is poor contribute sacrificially.
Catch up with the rest of the Toxic Charity Series!
