Earlier in the chapter of Luke, Jesus observed wealthy people placing large gifts in the temple treasury—but he also saw a poor widow offering just a few small coins. He pointed out that her gift was the most generous because she gave out of her poverty.
How many “poor widows” keep our churches beautiful? Our parish expenses can be
heavy, and we would struggle to meet them without the generosity of those who give from what little they have.
This week, we can pause to give thanks for the gifts we receive. The next time we walk into our church, we might whisper a prayer for those who have given from their need.
We might also ask ourselves: What gifts have I received from people who may have struggled
to offer them?