The Widow's Coins

The widow with her two coins is a well-known story in the gospels. Jesus, sitting in the temple observes this woman giving her all, her rent money, her money for groceries, her money for heat and clothing. She is giving everything. We know this because Jesus tells us. Jesus knows this woman's condition and Mark records it for us.

We have often used this event, Jesus words, to promote generosity, to promote giving. We raise this woman as an example of trust, of giving back to God. She is often set up as an example to all of us.

But, is that really Jesus' intention as he points this woman out to his disciples? Does he really raise her as an example to be followed, or is he contrasting her with the scribes and leaders of the community that he points out in the verses prior to the entry of the poor widow?

We'll struggle with this on Sunday. We'll struggle with the examples Jesus points to and wonder what lesson he would have us learn from them.