A Widow's Generosity

Then he 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 market-places, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honour 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

My mother was a widow for more than twenty years. During most of those years, she cooked meals for, and fed, upwards to 40 children every week. Most of these kids had a parent in jail and were living in substandard housing. Her car trunk was filled with the donations from others but a good deal of what was served came out of her own pocket. She didn't have much money, but she gave generously. She knew what it was like to be hungry as a child and knew her small offering could go a long way.

Creator God, heart of all generosity

you shower us with love and homes

you provide light along our paths

and guide us in our darkest nights.

We turn away from those in need

hoarding our riches, hiding our wealth

while others suffer because of greed

and children go to bed hungry at night.

Help us to follow the generous widow

may we share your abundance with joy

everything and each breath comes from you

so make us grateful and thankful always. Amen