Two widows depicted in the Old Testament and Gospel readings gave very little. The widow of Zarephath, called by God through Elijah, gave water and cake, the few provisions she had left for her and her child. The window observed by Jesus put two small coins in the temple’s collection. Both women were widows without husbands to care for them and with minuscule resources, so why did God want their gifts? What use could He have for a little bit of food and water or two small coins?
Often, when I felt called upon to give, I held back or gave modest gifts only for the sake of feeling that I contributed to clear my conscience. I clung to things I valued and made them idols. I stopped short of having a giving spirit. I convinced myself to hold on to my many possessions for selfish reasons, thinking what others give should be enough. But it is not my gifts from excess, the water and cake, or a few coins that God desires; He desires our hearts. I have also come short in my service and charity towards others. When I served, I did not always do it generously and with a giving spirit. I often served to keep busy or because I genuinely enjoyed the work. It was service from excess, not from a giving spirit. When I tried to show charity towards others, I let them know that I was praying for them but did not always take the time to call or visit with them.
The two widows’ profound trust in God in the Readings moved them to give everything they had. Their stories share remarkable faith and generosity, and invite us to reflect on the nature of faithful giving and divine providence. Almsgiving is rooted in love for God and our neighbor as an expression of faith and commitment to the teachings of Jesus. “On coming into the world, man is not equipped with everything he needs for developing his bodily and spiritual life. He needs others. Differences appear tied to age, physical abilities, intellectual or moral aptitudes, the benefits derived from social commerce, and the distribution of wealth. The “talents” are not distributed equally. These differences belong to God’s plan, who wills that each receive what he needs from others, and that those endowed with particular “talents” share the benefits with those who need them. These differences encourage and often oblige persons to practice generosity, kindness, and sharing of goods; they foster the mutual enrichment of cultures.” (Catechism §1936-1937) God governs and sustains the universe, unfolding His divine plan for all beings. With wisdom and love, He directs us toward perfection while granting us the dignity to act freely on His plan.
Jesus praised the widow’s spirit of her offering, not for the amount she gave. Generosity is measured by the love and sacrifice in which gifts are given. The Readings challenge us to examine and consider how we respond when God calls us. They encourage a deeper understanding of faith and trust in God’s providence and prompt us to live out the essence of discipleship in faithful giving to God and others.
Go in Peace to Love and Serve the Lord.
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