41-44 Sitting across from the offering box, he was observing how the crowd tossed money in for the collection. Many of the rich were making large contributions. One poor widow came up and put in two small coins—a measly two cents. Jesus called his disciples over and said, “The truth is that this poor widow gave more to the collection than all the others put together. All the others gave what they’ll never miss; she gave extravagantly what she couldn’t afford—she gave her all.”

This story has always stopped me to think about my own giving…of time, money, things, and myself. Am I giving my all with a heart of praise for the One who gives me life? I tithe…but is it what I’ll never miss? In times of struggle, when money is tight, do I give with a righteous heart or are my “coins” pried from my fist? In good financial times, is my offering thrown in for people to see and hear rattle around in the collection box?

Jesus observes…and knows. There is nothing to hide. There is nothing, absolutely nothing that get’s past Him.

Honest Questions for self:
Do I give to impress, to get credit, or to be liked more?
Do I give to receive a tax break?
Do I give hoping for more of God’s protection and love?
Do I give with “strings attached” so I will have more of a “say” in my church?
Do I bargain with God thinking if I give He will take care of a problem for me?
Do I cheerfully give with a grateful heart?

Dear Heavenly Father, We repent of those times when our “sacrifice” revealed a less than grateful heart. No matter what we give, You love us just the same. Your love has no bounds, no favorites, no prerequisites and is not based on our ability to give. Our giving is for us…not to try to pay you back, for that is impossible…but to realize in our giving, all that You have done for us and to grow in obedience to Your Word. Our giving, with a cheerful heart, makes us glad to be able to share in Your Kingdom work in a tangible way. Our giving develops our generosity in all areas of our lives. Our giving is not bargaining and has no strings attached. We give because we love You back. Pure and simple.

And I’m singing this to you this morning, Lord…
Give thanks with a grateful heart, give thanks
Give thanks with a grateful heart
Give thanks to the Holy One
Give thanks because He’s given Jesus Christ, His Son

And now let the weak say, “I am strong”
Let the poor say, “I am rich
Because of what the Lord has done for us”

Give thanks.

In Jesus Name, Amen