As he taught, Jesus said, “Watch out for the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honor at banquets. They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.”

Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.

Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into 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.”

Mark 12:38-44

Sometimes we use writing to worship God. We may not be as rich as we once were, we may become discouraged.

The Lord affirms that only He – not the opinions of other people – can determine our motives as a worshipper and the worth of our offerings to Him. Continue to ask the Giver of all gifts to continue helping us to develop our skills to share the resources He gives to each of us.

Although the widow’s story focuses on financial offerings, every act of giving can be an expression of worship and loving obedience. Like the widow, we honor God with intentional, generous, and sacrificial gifts given from whatever He has already given us. When we present God the best of our time, talents, or treasures with hearts motivated by love, we are lavishing Him with offerings of priceless worship.

Lord, thank You for never comparing us with others when we offer You the best of the gifts You’ve first given to us.

Sacrificial offerings motivated by our love for God

will always be priceless expressions of worship.

Our Daily Bread – September 3, 2017