Recently a multi-billionaire generously donated $476 million dollars to Habitat for Humanity, a wonderful gift to an organization doing great work. This donor’s name splashed across our newsfeeds, reminding us of the power of philanthropy and encouraging us to give to good causes.

Back in the day, Jesus also praised a certain giver. In his case, he pointed out a widow who shuffled up behind some major donors to give two copper coins. An insignificant amount, not enough for a doorknob in a new home today. But the gift impressed Jesus:

Truly I tell you, 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.

For me, this remains one of the most challenging teachings of Jesus. The enormous gift referenced above represents about 1% of that particular billionaire’s wealth. There’s still plenty in the bank to live on. The same holds for me—while I try to give generously, in no way do I match this widow. I don’t want to give away everything.

Which I don’t think Jesus is telling me to do. However, like the widow, I do think Jesus asks me to go all in. I’ve read in various places how lower-income people tend to give a greater percentage of their paycheck away than the rich. The poor know others need help, the wealthy (the category where I place myself) tend to forget.

Jesus reminds me not to forget. In the Lord’s economy, the heart’s intent determines the true value of a gift, whether a couple of coins or hundreds of millions of dollars. Give generously, give sacrificially, and understand the Lord counts the value of our gifts differently than you and I.

Luke 21 in reading the Bible cover to cover in 2022

Photo by Allef Vinicius