WISDOM

Acts 2:24
“Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other… For they contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed… her whole livelihood.”
------------------------------------------

Today’s gospel strucked me really hard, for I am guilty of being the opposite of the widow. One way that we praise God is through offering money. In fact, it is clear in the Bible that we give 10% of what we earn to God (tithes). But in today’s gospel, Jesus wants us to go more than that. He pointed out the action of a poor widow when she gave all that she have – her whole livelihood. The poor widow, it would seem, gave from more than a sense of duty or legal obligation. Her gift is perceived by Jesus, not as a harsh sacrifice, but as a noteworthy expression of the kingdom. When the kingdom of God comes into our lives, there is healing and joy in giving.

With the gift of wisdom, we see God at work in our lives and in the world. For the wise person, the wonders of nature, historical events, and the ups and downs of our lives take on deeper meaning. The matters of judgment about the truth, and being able to see the whole image of God. It is not anymore just following something by the letter (or by the percentage) but rather, knowing that in doing something, one must do it for the glory of God.

Not just looking at percentages, but rather at absolute amount relative to your “livelihood”. A millionaire’s 10% is far greater more than a minimum wage earner’s 10%. But I am no judge of who is better than the other. But Jesus is clear, the poor widow has put in more than the other – by giving all that she has – 100%!!!

We can give 10% to God and then waste the remaining 90% to vise, sinful acts, gluttony and things that we do not really need. In the end, we became slave to money. We would rather give 100% to Him than rot in hell.

Almighty Father, I continuously seek for knowledge and wisdom so I may have the ability to discern good from the bad. Compared to the wisdom You possess, the wisdom I possess now is nothing. And yet, You still love me, You still care for me, You still use me so others may learn.

Amen +

Celebrate days of gladness, and give him praise.