Mark 12:41-44
“He sat down opposite the treasury and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. 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. 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.”
This past week I have had a couple unique experiences of strangers going out of their way to be kind and generous to me.
One of the most surprising ones was at the DMV. I know! We didn’t have an appointment and so spent half a day waiting in various ways at the DMV. First, we got there an hour before it opened and waited in line outside. Once inside we waited for a few hours for our number to be called. I had plenty of time to observe people around me.
I watched in disbelief as the DMV staff consistently showed people kindness and graciously answered the same question over and over again – with no hint of frustration to people who walked in.
“I’m sorry we don’t have any appointments left; come back tomorrow at 7.”
“Sorry sir, you are at the wrong DMV. You need to go across town to the other one.”
If anyone had paperwork that wasn’t correct, they told them how to fix it rather then sending them away. It went against every preconceived idea of what I thought my experience would be at the DMV. There was so much kindness at the DMV!
The story of the widow giving her coins to Jesus is a famous one. In the Message translation it states “One poor widow came up and put in her two small coins – a measly two cents.”
That word “measly” stuck with me.
Sometimes what we have to offer the Lord or others feels small or measly – yet that is exactly what Jesus was looking for. He wants our all no matter the size.
This Advent it feels even more poignant as we know our neighbors can be hurting more than normal.
And maybe just like my experience at the DMV, a gracious word which can seem like a “measly” offering can transform a person’s day. Even while at work or in the business of the day, we all have something to offer the Lord and the people he puts in our path.
What might it look like for you?
Is it being generous with your time? Giving a friend a ride who can’t drive today?
Is it being generous with your thoughts? Praying for someone or sending a text of encouragement?
Is it being generous with your resources? Giving more than planned because of an increased need?
Lord, who can I show your generous love to today?