2024_10_28 Insight Post- Kim Feld
This week’s reading- Mark 12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4
I am often amazed by how little human nature has changed. The Bible paints an accurate picture of our “me-centered” selves. It seems that we are hard-wired to look out for ourselves even though we read throughout scripture that we should not be afraid but should trust God.
One of the most challenging areas of trust is our finances. I think that is likely true anywhere, but it seems particularly palpable in an affluent society such as ours. You may not feel like your situation is one of affluence – the United States certainly has people in need – but overall, the United States is considered a wealthy nation. It seems the more we have, the more protective we are of it.
The story of the widow’s offering is found in the Book of Mark and the Book of Luke. Jesus makes an interesting statement that I want to focus on today. Mark and Luke both record Jesus using the same words. Let’s take a look:
43 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. 44 For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.” Mark 12:43-44, NLT
3 “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. 4 For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.” Luke 21:3, NLT
In both instances, Jesus comments that the majority are giving out of their surplus, while she gives from her mainstay. This act of trust and devotion was so extraordinary to Jesus that He wanted to ensure His disciples didn’t miss it.
What would it be like if our giving was spontaneous and not out of what was left after our needs and, often, wants were met? What do we miss by not trusting God with our finances? I believe we miss the potential for blessings and maybe even miracles that God has in store for us.
Our God is the One who multiplied fish and bread and fed thousands out of a little boy’s lunch. He is the one who tells us to test Him in this one area because He knows it’s a big one. Take a look at this:
10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test! Malachi 3:10, NLT
Can God be trusted, even with our money?
Kim Feld
Executive Director of Education and Outreach