1 And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. 2 And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. 3 And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: 4 For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had. (Luke 21:1-4 KJV)
The Widow’s Offering
This short story, also recorded in Mark, is repeated to teach us:
That charity to the poor is a central part of true religion. Jesus frequently praised and encouraged it. He had just condemned the scribes for devouring widows’ houses (Luke 20), and this account may highlight that contrast—the poor widows were among the most generous givers, even though the scribes controlled the use of those funds.
That Jesus watches what we give to the poor and to works of piety and charity. Though focused on teaching, he looked up to see what was being cast into the treasury (Luke 21:1). He sees whether we give generously according to what we have, or sparingly and grudgingly. His judgment sees through all excuses, and that should caution us not to fall short in our giving. But it should also encourage us to give willingly and abundantly, even if no one else notices, because Christ does. He sees in secret and will reward openly.
That Christ especially honors the charity of the poor. Some who cannot give money can still show charity by helping and advocating for others in need. But here was a woman who, though poor herself, gave what little she had. It was only two mites, which make a farthing, but Jesus said she gave more than all the others. He didn’t criticize her for giving away what she needed or for giving in the presence of the rich, but he praised her generosity and trust in God to provide for her—Jehovah-jireh, the Lord will provide.
That whatever is given toward God’s work should be honored and supported cheerfully, even beyond what we think we can afford. These have cast in unto the offerings of God. What is given to support ministry, spread the gospel, educate youth, help the poor, or relieve those in distress, is considered an offering to God—and will be accepted and rewarded as such.