Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Coins in the Treasury Box

"Jesus sat down opposite the Temple treasury and watched the people dropping money into the treasury box; and many rich people put in large offerings. But a poor widow also came and dropped in two small coins. Then Jesus called His disciples and said to them, 'Truly I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all those who gave offerings. For all of them gave from their plenty, but she gave from her poverty and put in everything she had, her very living.'" - Mark 12:41-44

To me, this story isn't just about tithing, it's about how much each of us gives back to God. A rich person could give a lot of money to the church, just like some of us can afford to go to church once a week, but when looking at interior motives, what are we really giving to God? Are we just living up to our obligations, or are we really giving because we believe and know the importance of spending time in worshiping the Living God? Those rich people giving offerings were keeping up the appearance but their dedication wasn't true, yet the widow was humble and gave so much of herself so that her few coins meant so much more to Jesus than what the rich men put in. So must be our prayer life and dedication to God. If all you can spare in a day are 15 minutes of free time and you give it to the Lord, you will be blessed…but if you spend 15 praying and the rest of the day watching tv, chatting online, or playing video games, then don't expect the same blessings from God. He knows your heart and when you truly want to look for Him, not when you're just doing what you need to do to get by. Remember that as individuals Jesus has said that we will each be measured by the same ruler by which we measure.

Today's Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I'm sorry for the times I've short changed You when I could have given so much more. You deserve so much more from me, please help me grow in dedication to You. In Your Name we pray, amen.

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