June 29, 2023

Mark 12: 42-44 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more in the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything – all she had to live on.” (NIV)

There is no risk in generous giving.*

We don’t know why this woman would sacrifice everything she had to live on in order to make a contribution to the temple treasury. Maybe two copper coins – all that she had – weren’t enough to buy anything so she felt that she might as well contribute it to a good cause. Although Jesus seems to be commending her for her generosity, I think he was also making a point about other people’s lack of it. Rich people were casually tossing large amounts of money into the receptacle – leaving themselves with plenty for their own needs and luxuries.

There are those who use this story to excuse their own stinginess. They seem to be of the opinion that if their income hasn’t reached “wealthy status,” they are exempt from tithing. They give a tiny percentage of their wealth to the church and call it their “widow’s mite.” While there is no New Testament command to tithe, I believe there is ample support for the position that 10% is the least we can do. Jesus didn’t lower the bar on matters of the heart – he expects more from us than the Law required. (Read Matthew 5:17-48.)

I can testify from my own experience that it is quite possible to survive on the remaining 90%, no matter how poor you are. Return to God his small share and you will find that he provides in amazing and generous ways. “Test me in this,” he challenged Israel through the prophet Malachi. “Test him in this,” I challenge you today.  Bring in the whole tithe and see if he will not throw open the floodgates and pour out the blessings. Test him and learn to trust him.

Always give to the Lord up front. It is far easier to live on the 90 percent that remains than to withhold the tithe that is the Lord’s due.*