41Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. 42Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrants. [simple_tooltip content=’41 Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. 42 Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites, which make a quadrans. 43 So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; 44 for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.”’](Mark 12:41-44)[/simple_tooltip]
The treasury that is spoken of here is a place located in the Women’s Court that was in the Temple complex but was not part of the Temple itself. Women were not allowed in the Temple.
Jesus used this incident to teach His disciples a very important lesson. God’s promises concerning giving are an assurance that the widow’s offering pleased God and that He blessed her for it, but the widow did not hear Jesus’ commendation. There is no indication that she ever knew anyone had known the extent of her sacrifice.
Likewise, there are times when you may feel that no one knows or appreciates your financial sacrifices. This might not just be your sacrificial giving to the church or to a ministry but to the people in your life. However, just as surely as Jesus saw this woman’s gift and knew the sacrifice involved, your heavenly Father takes note of your smallest gift and one day will reward you.
Do not compare what you give with what someone else gives whether it is money or time or service. Remember that God looks at your heart. Take joy when you have the opportunity to give because in that way you are being like your Father. Today, be a giver just like He is a giver.
