Jesus and the Widow
This is a short story about a widow giving her last two pennies, all she had to live on, to the temple. It often gets interpreted and taught as Jesus commending this woman for giving so generously and sacrificially; full of faith that God would take care of her in her poverty. The moral of the story- we should do the same. Simple as that. But is it that simple? Or is there something more going on here?
Reflection-
Who are the vulnerable in our society? How are we doing with taking care of the most vulnerable in our midst? How can we do better?
Is how you treat people a reflection of the grace you've received or of self-salvation?
Further Reading - Jared Brock, "A God Named Josh: Uncovering the Human Life of Jesus Christ", especially his chapter on Jesus' economics
Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert, "When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself"
Further up, further in - Take time this week to meditate deeply and prayerfully on Isaiah 58. Ask God to show you His heart for those who are vulnerable. Journal what God reveals to you. Ask Him to give you the same heart and to take away any prejudice, pride, indifference, or apathy you may have. Ask Him to show you where you/we can do better in helping and taking care of our vulnerable neighbours, and share your insights with church leadership and with your family, friends, roommates, Going Deeper Group, or at a Family Gathering.