Are you familiar with the story of the widow’s offering in Luke 21:1-4? If not, I encourage you to take a moment to read it now.
In this story, Jesus notices a poor widow putting two small coins into the temple’s “offering basket”. He brings awareness to the fact this widow, even though her sum total was less than other’s giving, gave a gift that cost her more than others.
But as you read this story, I don’t want you to only consider the ways you can give financially. Let’s take a moment and explore this story through the lens of giving your time, treasure, and talent.
Giving of your time
Donating time is a powerful way to make a difference in the world. By donating your time to a cause you care about, you can directly impact the lives of those in need. Whether it's serving at a soup kitchen, tutoring children, or cleaning up a local park, volunteering is a tangible way to make a difference. Not only does it benefit those you are serving, but it can also be a meaningful and rewarding experience for you as a volunteer. You can develop new skills, meet new people, and gain a deeper understanding of the needs in your community.
Giving of your treasure
Referencing directly back to our story, giving of your treasure is another way to make a difference. Financial donations to organizations and causes that align with your values can have a far-reaching impact. It can help fund vital programs and services, provide resources for those in need, and support the work of non-profit organizations.
Giving of your talent
Finally, sharing the talents God has gifted you with is another way to make a difference. Each of us has unique skills and abilities that can be used to help others. By sharing those, you can empower others to achieve their goals and make a positive impact. Whether it's teaching a class, providing pro bono services, or mentoring someone, sharing your talent can be a powerful way to give back.
The story of the widow’s offering reminds us that giving is not just about the amount we give, but also about the spirit in which we give. The widow gave all she had, demonstrating her faith and trust in God.
Oftentimes, when we think about giving we give out of what we have been blessed richly with. But Jesus tells us, “[the widow] out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”
The Kingdom of God will move forward whether you give out of your “wealth” (of time, treasure, or talent) or out of your “poverty”. Neither approach is wrong.
The question we should each be asking ourselves as we give is, “Is this the most I can give?” We aren’t called to be irresponsible, but have faith God will provide for us no matter what we give.
What will you give today: time, treasure, talent?
And how will your gift result in advancing God’s Kingdom and deepening your faith in him?