November 8, 2009: 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

We are invited to share what we have.

Jesus sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. Then he called his disciples and said to them, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.” (Mark 12:41-44)

We immediately think “something is wrong with this picture.” It doesn’t make sense that a poor widow should give all that she has on to support the Temple. This widow is being “used” by the Temple authorities. God never expects the poor to give away the little they have to live on. God is very concerned for the poor and oppressed people in our world. The poor should also be our concern.

Action:

If we have more than enough money, material possessions, etc., we don’t miss what we give away. We are invited to share what we have so that there will be less of a discrepancy between “the haves and the have-nots”.
We are reminded these days to “Share our Thanksgiving” by giving money and nonperishable foods for those in need. Keep this story in mind as you discuss with your family what you are able to do to help the poor.