Copper Coins and Kingdom Riches
OPENING PRAYER:
Holy Spirit, guide our hearts to understand the depth of generosity and the power of a surrendered heart. May we see beyond the material and into the eternal, as we seek to align our hearts with Yours.
"Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, 'Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.'"
REFLECT:
In the message, we heard the story of an elderly Indian widow who gave her last two copper coins to support church planting in India. Her act of faith mirrors the biblical account of the widow's offering in Mark 12. Both stories highlight a profound truth: God values the heart behind the gift more than the gift itself. The widow's offering was not significant in monetary terms, but it was monumental in spiritual terms. Her heart was fully surrendered to God, trusting Him to provide for her needs.
Pastor Todd Carter shared how this widow's small gift inspired a chain reaction of generosity, leading to the construction of 48 churches. This is a testament to how God can multiply our offerings when they are given with a pure heart. It challenges us to consider what we hold back from God and what it means to give sacrificially. The widow's story is a reminder that our limitations do not limit God. He can take our small acts of faith and use them to accomplish great things.
Reflect on what it means to give out of poverty, not just financially, but emotionally and spiritually. Are there areas in your life where you feel you have little to offer? Remember, God is not looking for the size of the gift but the size of the heart that gives it. When we give from a place of trust and surrender, we open ourselves to the miraculous work of God in our lives and the lives of others.
As you meditate on this story, ask God to reveal areas where you can step out in faith and generosity. Let the widow's example inspire you to trust God with your whole heart, knowing that He can do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will make a commitment, stay strong in my commitment, or increase my commitment to All Things New.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Father, thank You for the example of the widow's faith. Help us to trust You with our whole hearts and to give generously, knowing that You can multiply our offerings for Your kingdom. Amen.