What Jesus Did! 'More Than Is Apparent' — Luke 21:1-4

Thursday, November 23, 2023

While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins.

"I tell you the truth," Jesus said, "this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has."

— Luke 21:1-4 NLT

Key Thought

If we are not careful, we can easily jump to judgment based on external demonstrations of piety. We can very easily reach the point where we honor those who are wealthy because their gifts are large monetarily, even though their actual sacrifices may be small. God, however, knows our hearts when we give. He knows what we hold back and why. He also knows how much we sacrifice and the attitude which has prompted that sacrifice. All around us are people who are living for the Lord but who would seldom receive human recognition. Jesus, however, notices. He knows people's hearts as they give and serve. Not one kindness we do in the name of Jesus and for the glory of the Kingdom will be forgotten. Not one sacrifice for the Savior will go unnoticed. He knows the truth behind our gifts and is blessed when they come from a generous, joyous, and sacrificial heart.

Today's Prayer

Father God, you own everything in the heavens and on the earth; please break me from the sinful habits of greed, worldliness, covetousness, and indiscipline. What your Son has done for me is much greater than any of my fleeting and temporary accomplishments. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • James 2:1-5
  • 2 Corinthians 8:1-5
  • 2 Corinthians 9:6-8

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Illustration

Illustration of Luke 21:1-4 NLT — "I tell you the truth," —— "this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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