Daily Devotions
Mark
Therefore, being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him "Acts 2:30a"
Day 273 – Mark 12
THE ISSUE OF ALMSGIVING
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus spoke and warned of the danger of doing alms-giving in an ostentatious manner (Cf. Matthew 6:1-2). Many of the wealthy were guilty of giving with the idea of attracting attention to themselves, thus basking in the glory of men.
A SHARP CONTRAST
On this occasion, Jesus saw a scene that afforded an opportunity for Him to teach on the subject of giving.
1. The scene at the Treasury
This refers to thirteen trumpet-shaped receptacles that were placed outside the Women’s Court.
2. The giving of the rich (Mark 12:41)
a) They were able to give much.
b) This was because they were able to afford much.
3. The giving of the widow (Mark 12:42)
a) Her inherent plight as a widow must be noted.
b) She could only give “two mites”.
(The two mites would be equivalent to a fourth of one cent!)
A SPECIAL LESSON FOR THE DISCIPLES
Jesus wanted His disciples to learn a valuable lesson.
“So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them,
‘Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in
more than all those who have given to the treasury;
for they all put in out of their abundance,
but she out of her poverty put in all that she had,
her whole livelihood.”
MARK 12:43-44
What were two important lessons that may be learned?
1. Never be impressed by those who are rich and can give much.
2. Always seek to appreciate the principle of sacrifice behind every gift (This is what counts with God)!