All In

Week 3 Day 17

Mark 12:41-44

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.”

Jesus is now just days away from the events that will lead up to his death, and yet here he is in the temple courts teaching his disciples right until the end. He very intentionally sits down to watch those who are giving at the temple and is so impressed with what he sees in one woman, that he calls his disciples over to show them (a good example of how Jesus taught his disciples through life experiences).

What is it that so impressed Jesus? It may have been that this woman who gave so generously was not only poor, she was a poor widow. Widows at this time were particularly vulnerable. Not having someone to provide for you and protect you was a serious matter. From this simple act it seems that this woman was not only generous, but she was truly relying on God. God was her provider and protector. When it came to her trust in God, she was “all in.”

Where does our ultimate trust lie? Is it in our money? Our employer? The stock market? When this is the case, we tend to live with increased anxiety and decreased risk and generosity. When our true trust is in God, we are willing to give in radical, sacrificial ways that can bring real impact to others and real joy to us. We are willing to try new things, follow God into new adventures, and experience the fulfillment that comes with those risks.

But it comes down to trust. When it comes to trusting God, are we all in?

Reflection
What is something you are tempted to trust in more than God? What is one small risk you could take this week in the area of giving or obedience?

Prayer
Father, you are worthy of my trust. Where other things will fail me, you are faithful. Help me take risks for your sake and have the chance to see you provide.