Money, Money Money, Money!

Jesus 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. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins.

  Jesus 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. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.”
Mark 12:41-44

I have heard this story many many times throughout my time on this earth.  I have heard it told to support the idea that it's not how much you give to the church...it's about why you give to the church.  I have heard it told to support the idea that giving is not optional (guilt, guilt, guilt).  I have heard it told to support the idea that "We have staff to support, programs to fund, buildings to build/renovate, and so many other projects that need funding."  Then we find out that these well meant funds include a right healthy staff raise, perhaps a new car for the pastor (that is far better than anyone else in the congregation has), and the programs being funded aren't helping anyone locally.

We use this story to suit our own greed.  We use this story to encourage giving. We use this story to do many things.  But the thing I want you to understand is when is Enough truly Enough?  Jesus never said that we were not to give.  Jesus did teach against greed and doing things just for the purpose of being showy (drawing attention to how "holy and righteous" you think you are).

Now, those two copper coins were just enough to buy about one sandwich worth of day old bread.  That was ALL this woman had!  But the truth of this story is not about money!    Do you REALLY think God has any desire for your money?  If God needs something funded, He will provide the money.  

The true meaning of this story is about the heart. God wants us to be so reliant on Him that we do not fear!   He wants us to love and trust Him so much that should we lose EVERYTHING...we will trust Him to provide what we need.  And God usually provides for our needs in such unexpected ways that we can't help but know it was God who provided.  God also wants us to love and trust Him so much that we aren't afraid to be the source of help for someone who is truly in need.  Think about it!