Faith in Christ Exemplo

GIVE THE BEST 

Mark 12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4

"For all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had." (Luke 21:4)

Since faith comes from hearing God's Word, the absence of a heart that wants to give in the life of God's church could be the result of a lack of meditation about the truth of giving. What often happens in the life of the believers while practicing Christianity is the rise of "seeking profit," which is marked by the desire to receive more than what they give.  The pursuit of blessings (rather than our love for Him) becomes our motivation to worship the Lord.  The source of the blessing is no longer important than the blessing, and we look to "His hands" rather than "His face". Even a ministry no longer has the value of sacrifice, dedication, and struggle.

On the other hand, the early church in the Bible made "giving" the main sign and normal Christian lifestyle. Giving away their possessions to share with everyone was not a problem. From the very beginning, they have overcome the spirit of love for money, that their further movements were not hampered by the greedy spirit of wealth that would hinder the spread of the Good News.

In today's text, we read about the parable of the Pharisee and a poor widow. Both of them were doing the same thing, which was to give an offering.  The Lord was more pleased with the gift of the poor widow than the rich people. (Even though the rich gave more).  Why?

That was because the poor widow gave out of her lack. God could "feel" this gift – not because of its smaller amount but because of its higher sacrifice!

Reflection:

1. Have you given your best, not only money but also your heart and time, to the Lord? 

2. Answer honestly, which person are you? Are you the one who gives from your abundance or who gives from your lack?

Application:

Make "giving" a habit, and you will see what God will do in your life.