Two Small Copper Coins

Then Jesus said to them, "How can they say that the Messiah is David's son? For David himself says in the book of Psalms, 'The Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool."' David thus calls him Lord; so how can he be his son?" In the hearing of all the people he said to the disciples, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and love to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets. They devour widows' houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation."

He looked up and saw rich people putting their gifts into the treasury; he also saw a poor widow put in two small copper coins. He said, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them; for all of them have contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in all she had to live on.” Luke 20:41—21:4 

Two Small Copper Coins

Oh mother, you have always given all

your heart was moved by others' needs

you took in children that had no home

and found a seat at the table for the lost. 

Oh mother, you make food go far

and pray even for the abusers

never complaining about your own lack

thanking God for your many blessings.

Oh mother, the priests scorn you as simple

others think you foolish or naive

God knows you as a beloved child

and neighbors call your humble house home.

Oh mother, may we all learn from you

who offers food and comfort for everyone

may we honor you by following your habits

sharing God's abundance in our small towns.