Many of us continue to be fascinated with Jesus’ teaching on “The Widow’s Two Mites” in a nation of plenty. In Mark’s account, we read that “she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood” (Mark 12:44b, NKJV). How could this seemingly destitute person choose to give away her livelihood based on her quadranic offering?
The Scriptures do not reveal the amounts provided by the rich who “put in much” (Mark 12:41b), but we can rest assured, in comparison to this nameless widow, it more than likely could be afforded, maybe to the extent that it did not hurt their bottom line at all. The widow’s act of beneficence demarcates philanthropy versus sacrifice. Beneficence is often defined as the “act of charity, mercy, and kindness with a strong connotation of doing good to others, including moral obligation” (NIH.gov, May 13, 2025). Her sacrifice cannot be questioned, but many have questioned her motive. Personally, I do not see a desire to receive vain glory among men as Ananias and Sapphira strove to accomplish in the selling of personal assets (Acts 5:1-10). Neither do I see someone vested in a show of wealth derived from power and deceitfulness, as Ephraim praised himself (Hosea 12:7-14). What can be seen is a desire to please God Matthew 6:1). Efforts to support the work of the Lord to the point many have considered it a privilege (2 Corinthians 8:2-5).
Why does motive matter? Because love is an action…one which never excludes the sacrifice (1 Chronicles 21:24). With that being stated, please allow me to commend the many of you who offered me dinner before I left town, calls which bade me safe travel, text prayers, and email well wishes for safe travels. Knowing this was an unplanned excursion to Texas, some of you contributed to my expedition, realizing my finances may not be up to speed. Many of you sought my replies to ensure that I and my family were doing well under the circumstances; I am eternally grateful for all of this! Why does this matter? It matters because I see the “widow’s motive” in many, if not all, of these actions. Some of you love my work and wish for it to continue. You supported that. Some of you honestly see me in yourself and serve an Almighty God in your altruistic manner. You supported that. Some of you, thank the Lord that, as you had it to give, you did, and if a Brother or Sister benefits from said action, “so let it be”. You supported that. Thanks again to one and all who extended these kindnesses to me. May God bless you and continue to keep you in all things Heaven-bound.
Think about these things,
Archie R. Green
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