God’s Economy - A Management of Giving Entirely

32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time: November 10, 2024

Readings: 1 Kings 17:10–16; Psalm 146:7–10; Hebrews 9:24–28; Mark 12:41–44

To listen to the audio-video reflections via YouTube, please click here: https://youtu.be/7fRyN3enFJE

The world that we live in today is not so kind and authentic. In today’s world, we often witness a contrast between appearances and authenticity, between acts of charity performed for recognition and those born from genuine self-sacrifice. In 1 Kings 17:10–16, we see a humble widow who, despite her own need, offers her last bit of food to the prophet Elijah. Her quiet trust and willingness to give from her scarcity highlight a faith rooted in dependence on God’s provision. In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus contrasts the wealthy scribes, who give out of their abundance, with a poor widow who offers two small coins—her entire livelihood.

1. A radical trust in God displaces superficiality

The stories of the two widows in 1 Kings 17:10–16 and Mark 12:41–44 reflect two ways of giving: one that comes from a place of selfless trust and one that, though outwardly generous, may lack depth. In a society that often values image over substance, these passages invite us to reflect on our own motivations and the authenticity of our giving. Are we like the scribes, seeking to impress, or like the widows, offering all we have in quiet faith? In most cultures, widows are not treated well. Often they become outcasts and neglected lot. But God is gracious and generous towards them. They may not have a lot of wealth but they have a great, loving and generous heart. That is their solace and the source of their strength.

They reveal a startling contrast between appearances and authenticity, between superficial acts of charity and the true spirit of self-sacrifice. These women, though marginalized and impoverished, display a radical trust in God that cuts to the heart of what it means to be generous, faithful, and sincere. In a world filled with noise, competition, and the constant pressure to present ourselves a certain way, these widows remind us of the beauty and power of authenticity and simplicity.

2. Abundance in God's providence - the Quiet Heroism of the Poor

In 1 Kings, the widow of Zarephath gives her last bit of flour and oil to Elijah, despite the fact that she is facing starvation. She risks everything to serve a stranger, trusting that God will provide. Her faith is tested at the edge of survival, yet she doesn’t waver. Her giving isn’t motivated by recognition or reward; it comes from a heart that chooses obedience and trust over self-preservation. This widow’s action reflects a quiet courage and a depth of faith that isn’t swayed by circumstances.

Similarly, in Mark 12, we see another widow whose small act of giving goes unnoticed by everyone except Jesus. She places two small coins, all she has, into the temple treasury. Others might see her contribution as insignificant, but Jesus sees her heart. She gives not from a place of abundance but from her poverty. She is not concerned with appearances; she isn’t giving to impress. She gives because it is her way of trusting in God, of offering back all she has to the One who sustains her. Her gift, though small in value, is a profound act of faith. It is an act of total surrender, a declaration that her life and security rest in God’s hands alone.

3. Sacrifice in Giving: A Call to Selflessness

Today, we live in a culture that often equates worth with success, influence, and material wealth. Social media, advertisements, and societal expectations create an environment where appearances matter greatly, where people are celebrated for what they have rather than who they are. This culture of superficiality can influence us grately. We may find ourselves more concerned with how we appear to others than with how we stand before God.

In reality, charity or offering consists of sacrifice, humility and rejoicing at the smile of the other. It is not giving out of abundance or affluence, which really does not belong to oneself. We see the so-called wealthy and crorepatis or millionaires giving in millions to their Alma Mater like IIM's, IIT's or other politically driven organizations and not to those people or organizations which really wipe the tears or fill the hungry stomachs or make the lives of rural masses a bit easier or comfortable. The widows’ stories truly invite us to turn inward, to assess the condition of our hearts, the depth of our faith and the principles of our lives. Let us pray for the courage to be people of authenticity, whose actions are rooted in love, and whose hearts are aligned with God’s purposes.

Questions for self-reflection

1. When I give my time, talents, or resources, is it with a spirit of humility and love, or am I seeking recognition and approval from others?
2. What small sacrifices can I make daily to show my gratitude to God and compassion for others?
3. How can I cultivate a heart that gives generously, even when it feels costly?
4. What habits, attitudes, or choices could I change to prepare my heart more fully for Jesus?

Prayer based on Psalm 146

Loving and Faithful God,

You are the defender of the oppressed, the provider for those in need, and the liberator of captives. You lift up the lowly and care for the stranger, the orphan, and the widow. Lord, open our hearts to see the world through Your compassionate eyes. Help us to walk in Your ways, to be a voice for the voiceless, and to bring hope to those who feel forgotten. 

Teach us to trust you as the widow did, with an open heart and a willingness to give selflessly. Help us to recognize that true wealth is found in the love, faith, and generosity we share. Strengthen our trust in your providence and give us the courage to let go of what we cling to. Strengthen us to follow in Your ways and to share Your love with the world around us. We make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name, Amen.

- Olvin Veigas, SJ

November 08, 2024