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Two Copper Coins

Remember the time Jesus sat watching what people put into the offering box? Some richly-dressed worshippers threw money into the treasury so the clank of the coins would draw attention to their gifts. In contrast a widow woman quietly dropped in two copper coins, “worth only a fraction of a penny” according to Mark.

Jesus captured the moment for a teaching opportunity for his disciples and for us. “I tell you the truth, 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” (Mark 12:43,44, NIV).

Being in the ministry sometimes makes me feel that, like the widow, I have put everything into life until I had no more to give. No, I have never given all my money. My “two copper coins” are “time and energy.” All too often I feel drained of both. Deadlines, meetings and people demand so much I feel totally depleted of personal resources.

I know Jesus was talking about money, but I think He is interested in people, especially those who are active in His service. He sees those who are giving all they have for His work and understands this sense of depletion.

He also sees motive. He watched those who gave gifts to make a splash in the eyes of men. He also knew the devotion of the woman who gave everything she had. What I need to keep in mind is not how much I am giving, but how close He is watching, He knows and understands. With that knowledge, I am renewed and ready to give again.

Prayer for the week:

Lord you know the demands that will be made on my time and energy this week. Help me to respond to those demands with grace, knowing You see and understand. When I feel depleted of my own energy, restore me with Your strength, and to You will be the glory. Amen.

PEGGY MUSGROVE is a licensed Assemblies of God minister. She is also a speaker, freelance writer, author and prayer group leader. Her latest book, Musings of a Maraschino Cherry was released in 2004.. You can visit her at www.musgroveville.com.

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