1 Kings 17: 10-16
Psalm 146: 7-10
Hebrews 9: 24-28
Mark 12: 38-44
This Gospel has often been interpreted as praise of the generosity of a poor woman. It is also possible to understand Jesus' mention of her as a lament: she has given all that she has, but is that really a responsible decision? One of the greatest challenges for a Christian steward is discerning the appropriate amount and target of one's sacrificial giving, generosity and charity.
Stewardship begins with the fundamental truth that all that we have ultimately comes from God. We are stewards, not owners of our talents, possessions and wealth. In recognition of this reality and out of gratitude, we naturally offer a portion of what is ours, the 'first fruits' (not the leftovers) back in the service of God and others. And yet, our offering must come from focused discernment: at this stage in my life, with my particular commitments of time, energy and money, what is the proper sacrificial offering that will enhance and enrich rather than sow discord and instability? (For instance, we LOVE people volunteering at church, but if you are here 80% of the time and NEVER see your family, how holy and helpful is that?) And if you are generous with your finance (like the widow of the Gospel) to the point of not being able to pay your own mortgage or put food on the table, one might well question if that moves from the realm of trusting reliance on God to foolhardy budgeting.
There's a time to through caution to the wind. See the widow in the first reading. And a time to be prudent and discerning. Both those decisions are best made prayerfully.
The topic for our Catechumenate session this Sunday is Stewardship.
The Mystagogia group meets this Sunday.
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