What would you give?

Readings for Monday November 24, 2008

Memorial of Saint Andrew Dung-Lac, priest and martyr, and his companions, martyrs

First Reading: Revelation 14:1-3; 4b-5
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 24
Gospel: Luke 21:1-4


I remember when I first heard this gospel story of the woman who gave just two small coins, while the other men gave a very hefty amount of money to the offering. My Sunday school teachers used this as a lesson in generosity and tithing. I am very thankful that this story has stayed with me throughout my life, because the example set forth by the woman have popped in my head many times when I have been asked to give. There have been many times in which I have been hit up for donations or a chance to give to a good cause, and even though I didn't have much money (or finally had extra), I thought about this woman's great example.

This gospel story reminds us of the importance of not holding back from God. It is not just in terms of giving money, it is also in the things that we do and where we spend our time. Do we give to the Lord the time He deserves with us in prayer each day? Do we help those in need as much as we should each time we are given the chance? We are reminded often that the greatest commandment that we are to follow is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. And to really do this, then we need to give all that we can to God, without holding anything back.

What would you give to be with God in heaven one day? Would you sacrifice some extra cash for the parish offering plate? Would you be willing to turn off the TV and spend some time in prayer? Would you sacrifice a Saturday to watch college football and go volunteer at the homeless shelter? Yes, these things will be hard; and yes, you may not even get many "thank yous" or the gratitude that you deserve. But your small sacrifices and actions will not go unnoticed, because like the woman in today's gospel our Lord Jesus sees everything ... even two small coins.

What would you give?

Father above, we thank you for the gift of this day. We praise you for all that we are and all that we have. Lord help us to not hold back from you, let us always strive to do your will and to sacrifice for you each day. Lord, we pray for all those who are seeking you, all those who are lost, may they find their lives with you. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.