Signposts On The Way

As with every human being, there can be times when life gets rough for us.  Feelings of inadequacy and discouragement might flow over us like huge waves.  At such a time, I am graced by the gospel passage about the poor widow’s contribution to the temple treasury (Mark 12:41-44, or Luke 21:1-4). 

What strikes me most about this passage is Jesus’ care-filled awareness of what life was like for this woman, his regard and gentleness for her, and his understanding of her and her contribution.  From that understanding, the recognition he pointed out to his disciples is that she gave all she had.  He described her giving those two small coins as her giving more than anyone else. 

That description flips how most might describe the situation.  In a tough time, I need to know that Jesus might describe the situation differently than my aching psyche is describing it.  Even more, recalling Jesus’ care and respect for this woman reminds me that Jesus might want me to experience his deep care and respect for me, especially in my time of difficulty. 

Evermore consistently, by God’s grace, may I truly see others and their realities, and respond with care and respect.