Friday, October 29, 2021

Today’s Reading: Luke 21:1-4

“I tell you the truth,” He said. “This poor widow has put in more than all of them.”

Luke 21:3

Reflection: God desires our hearts. He is pleased with the poor woman who gives two meager coins. Her offering, to Him, is more valuable than that of those who give from their wealth. Because the woman gives from her livelihood, she shows God that she prioritizes Him above her own well-being.

What does the God of the Universe find precious? What of value do we have to give the Creator of all things? The answer lies within our hearts. God longs for human hearts that desire to please Him. Like a beaming parent who eagerly receives dried macaroni necklaces or pictures of incomprehensible scribbles from their beloved child, God is pleased when we give to Him heartfelt offerings. Even when we think our offerings are meager, He sees what we lay down (time, talent, and treasure) and is especially pleased with us when they are all that we have to offer.

God finds great value in the heart of the giver, and also in what a giver’s offering has cost them. No one can outgive God. God knows fully what it is to give sacrificially. But He Who did not withhold His only Begotten Son from the Cross at Calvary for our sake is overjoyed when we, His children, desire to return to Him the love He’s first shown us.

Prayer: Loving God, You willingly give me blessing upon blessing. All that I have is because of Your love for me. Help me to surrender all that I have to You. I love You, LORD. In Jesus’ Name I pray, AMEN.

Bible-in-a-Year Reading Plan (credit: Biblestudytools.com): Luke 21; Genesis 38; Psalm 29