Thanks & Giving
As we continue in The Encounters with Jesus series, we are drawn to one of the most beautiful pictures of genuine gratitude and sacrificial giving found in the story of the widow’s offering in Luke 21:1–4.
Jesus was watching as people came to the temple treasury. Many wealthy worshipers dropped in large sums—gifts that made noise, gifts that drew attention. But then came a woman whose offering barely made a sound: two small copper coins, the smallest currency of her day. What she gave looked insignificant to others, yet Jesus said her gift was greater than all the others combined.
In a season where “thanksgiving” often centers around what we receive, Jesus reminds us that true gratitude naturally overflows into giving. The widow didn’t give much by earthly standards, but in heaven’s eyes she gave everything. Her act wasn’t about money—it was about faith. It was about trusting God with her life, her future, and her very next meal.
As a church family, may we be inspired by her quiet courage and deep devotion. May our thanksgiving this year become “thanks and giving”—a response of worship that honors the One who has given us everything in Christ.
With gratitude,
Pastor Patrick