Homily on Mark 12:35-44

 

Mark 12:35-44

While Jesus was teaching in the temple, he said, "How can the scribes say that the Messiah is the son of David? David himself, by the Holy Spirit, declared, 'The Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at my right hand, until I put your enemies under your feet."' David himself calls him Lord; so how can he be his son?" And the large crowd was listening to him with delight. As he taught, he said, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! They devour widows' houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation." He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. Then he called his disciples and said to them, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on."

Dear Folks,

In today's Gospel, we see Jesus teaching in the temple, addressing two crucial issues: the true nature of the Messiah and the true nature of giving.

First, Jesus challenges the prevailing understanding of the Messiah's lineage. The scribes taught that the Messiah was simply the son of David, a descendant of the great king. But Jesus, quoting Psalm 110, points out that David himself refers to the Messiah as "Lord." "David himself calls him Lord; so how can he be his son?" Jesus asks. He reveals that the Messiah's identity transcends earthly lineage; he is divine, greater than David.

This isn't just a theological debate. It's a revelation of Jesus's own identity. He is not just a prophet, not just a teacher, but the Lord, the Messiah, the Son of God. He is greater than any earthly king, and his authority comes from God himself.

Then, Jesus shifts his focus to the scribes' hypocrisy. He warns the crowds, "Beware of the scribes, who like to walk around in long robes, and to be greeted with respect in the marketplaces, and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets!" He exposes their desire for outward recognition, their love of titles and prestige. They "devour widows' houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers." Their piety is a facade, a mask for their greed and self-righteousness.

Jesus contrasts their behavior with the example of a poor widow. He observes her as she approaches the treasury, where people deposited their offerings. While the rich put in large sums, she gives only two small copper coins, "which are worth a penny."

To the disciples' surprise, Jesus declares, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury." Why? Because while the rich gave from their abundance, she gave from her poverty. She gave "everything she had, all she had to live on."

This widow's offering is a powerful lesson in true generosity. It's not about the amount we give, but the sacrifice we make. It's about giving from the heart, trusting in God's provision, and putting our faith into action.

The scribes sought outward recognition, but the widow sought only to honor God. The scribes used religion to elevate themselves, but the widow used her offering to express her complete dependence on God.

This Gospel challenges us to examine our own hearts. Are we seeking the approval of others, or the approval of God? Are we giving from our abundance, or are we willing to sacrifice for the sake of God and others?

We are called to give generously, not just of our material possessions, but of our time, our talents, and our love. We are called to give with a sincere heart, trusting that God will provide for our needs. We are called to be like the poor widow, who gave everything she had, trusting in God's faithfulness.

Let us remember that true greatness is not found in outward appearances or titles, but in humility, sacrifice, and love. Let us strive to give generously, not for the praise of others, but for the glory of God. And let us recognize Jesus as our Lord, the Messiah, the Son of God, who gave everything for us. Amen.

O God, the strength of all who put their trust in you: Mercifully accept our prayers; and because in our weakness we can do nothing good without you, give us the help of your grace, that in keeping your commandments we may please you both in will and deed; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Love,

+Br'er Abbot