RBWords

     "The Widow's Mite" is an expression in English that has come down to us from this gospel incident.  It refers to a small thing that costs the giver a lot but which might be overlooked by more dramatic things.  All Jews in Jesus' time were expected to contribute to the upkeep and operation of the temple.  The setting of the incident is important.  Jesus is now in Jerusalem.  He has already caused a sensation by his actions in "cleansing" the temple.  He is now teaching in the temple area while elsewhere in Jerusalem the plot to get rid of him is developing.  Apparently he is near the receptacles that were provided for receiving temple tax and donations.  These were made of metal and when a lot of coins were dropped, they could made a loud sound.  The poor widow's donation would not made a loud noise.  To Jesus, her generosity rang out loud!

     Jesus' response could point to several things.  He is definitely praising the widow's generosity but may also be indirectly criticizing a system of taxing that was oppressive to poor widows and others less well-off.  The widow gave all that she had.  Jesus also may be reflecting on his own gift to come, his life for others.

     Any bishop or pastor or fund-raiser for a charitable cause can testify to the importance of those who truly make a sacrifice in contributing to a diocese, parish or other charitable cause.  At the same time, all of us who are charged with asking for those contributions should be aware of the common complaint from the pew, "All they talk about from the pulpit is money!"  The best appeal is faithful service and care for the People of God.  No capital campaign can succeed unless that faithful service and care are part of the daily life of the church.  Maintaining magnificent buildings by impoverishing those who can least afford it is scarcely a reflection of Jesus' ministry.  AMEN