What a contrast! The scribes in today’s Gospel were conscious of how they appeared to others. Their long robes matched up nicely with their long prayers, and who wouldn’t agree that time spent in the synagogues was time well spent? Compared to these men, the widow seemed insignificant. Anyone looking at her could probably tell that she was poor. Her clothes were probably torn, and her shoes were thin. It could be easy to see her two small coins as a reflection of her own limited value.
But looks can be deceiving. The Lord looks into the heart and this widow’s heart was given over to the Lord. By being willing to give “all she had, her whole livelihood”, she was also offering the Lord her energy, her time and her prayers. The scribes should have been willing to do the same. But Jesus knew that their hearts were full of themselves. They clung too tightly to their pride and their position as scholars of the Law and expected everyone to treat them with great honor and respect.
Let’s use this Gospel passage today to examine our own hearts. Are we willing to offer all we have to the Lord? Or do we hold onto some things-- or some people—too tightly? Maybe we cling to our status and the respect that comes with it. Maybe we are holding on to our status and the respect that comes with it. Maybe we are holding onto our money too tightly instead of giving generously to those in need. Maybe we have too tight a grasp on our free time instead of being willing to serve someone. We might even struggle with letting go of someone close to us, like our adult children.
If you detect that you are holding onto something or someone too tightly, don’t despair! Imagine the Lord smiling as He receives whatever gift you offer Him. Then hear Him say, “Don’t worry. I can give you all that you need!” “Jesus, I want to offer everything I have to you. Help me do it!”
Today’s homily was from Word Among Us. I encourage to take it home and read the readings and meditations daily.
Today’s Gospel is a reminder that no matter how many gifts we may have, whether that be a few or many, we have the joy of using them for God and for love of neighbor.
When you think about any act of charity you do, you are really practicing stewardship. The definition of stewardship is a grateful response of a Christian Disciple who recognizes and receives God's gifts and shares these gifts in love of God and neighbor.
Are there some gifts that you are keeping to yourself and not using them for God and for others?
First, pray. And ask the Lord to help you recognize your gifts He has given to you. Then respond gratefully by using them for love of God and neighbor.
Soon, we will make available stewardship forms for you to fill out for Holy Trinity. But, stewardship is not limited to the church, stewardship is about using our time, talent and treasure for love of God, and for neighbor wherever we may be. Its about being a disciple of Jesus every day, wherever we maybe or wherever God may take us.
May Our Blessed Mother, help us to love Jesus and to serve Him with all our heart, as She did Her entire life.
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