Monday, February 8, 2021

Mark 12:38-44

Mark 12:38-44 
  It's always easy to criticize what someone else gives.  Lately, celebrities get criticized whenever they give to a cause because they're not giving enough -- someone is always suggesting they should give more.  Spending other people's money is easy.
  It's worth noting that Jesus sat by the offering box and watched what people gave.  It matters how we give.  It matters what we give.  
  We'd love an easy rule that says exactly what each should give, how much we should all give.  The tithe is a good place to start, but Jesus often didn't give blanket rules.  The poor widow gave what she could, while others seemed to give just enough to receive the honor associated with their gifts.  
  Each of us need to prayerfully consider how much we can give.  It shouldn't be easy, but it should be meaningful, that our giving leads us to be grateful for what God has given us and mindful of those around us who have less, thinking about how our gifts can build up the community, how they can glorify God and join in the things God is doing in the world around us.

No comments: