A reading of the holy Gospel according to Lk 21:1-4
When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy peopleputting their offerings into the treasuryand he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins.He said, “I tell you truly,this poor widow put in more than all the rest;for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth,but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.”
REFLECTION
"From her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.”
The story of the poor widow is repeated perhaps because of its importance especially as we enter Advent. Concentration has been on the poor widow who gave all her livelihood. What about the wealthy people? There are some rich people who are generous in their donations but even their monetary donation will not be missed in the slightest by them. We always see the very wealthy and many wonder why don't they give more. Some, even after donating, make it known through social media or news agencies of their generous donation. This person paid for this or donated that or the beautiful windows of the Church were donated by this person. Their donations and their reasons should be between them and God.
But how does this story affect the rest of us who are not in that category of philanthropy without affecting our income or net worth? If we cannot afford the monies, we can afford to give of ourselves--in time, energy and abilities. There is a difference between giving alms and sharing ourselves in different ways to the less fortunate.
Next time, consider driving someone to church, help someone with groceries, visit a nursing home or go Christmas caroling, work with the Missionaries of Charity, volunteer at the food bank, homeless shelters, or Catholic Charities. When the thought crosses your mind, pay no attention to your mental dissent, but follow through. With giving, volunteering and sacrificing say, "I can do it all for the sake of God". That, too, will be between you and God.
