In a moment of profound insight, Jesus observes a poor widow giving her last two coins at the temple, teaching us a powerful lesson about true sacrifice and faith.
The Reading: Luke 21
World English Bible1 He looked up, and saw the rich people who were putting their gifts into the treasury.
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2 He saw a certain poor widow casting in two small brass coins.
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3 He said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow put in more than all of them,
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4 for all these put in gifts for God from their abundance, but she, out of her poverty, put in all that she had to live on.”
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5 As some were talking about the temple and how it was decorated with beautiful stones and gifts, he said,
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6 “As for these things which you see, the days will come, in which there will not be left here one stone on another that will not be thrown down.”
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7 They asked him, “Teacher, so when will these things be? What is the sign that these things are about to happen?”
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8 He said, “Watch out that you don’t get led astray, for many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he,’ and, ‘The time is at hand.’ Therefore don’t follow them.
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9 When you hear of wars and disturbances, don’t be terrified, for these things must happen first, but the end won’t come immediately.”
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10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
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11 There will be great earthquakes, famines, and plagues in various places. There will be terrors and great signs from heaven.
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12 But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and will persecute you, delivering you up to synagogues and prisons, bringing you before kings and governors for my name’s sake.
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13 It will turn out as a testimony for you.
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14 Settle it therefore in your hearts not to meditate beforehand how to answer,
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15 for I will give you a mouth and wisdom which all your adversaries will not be able to withstand or to contradict.
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16 You will be handed over even by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends. They will cause some of you to be put to death.
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17 You will be hated by all men for my name’s sake.
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18 And not a hair of your head will perish.
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19 “By your endurance you will win your lives.
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20 “But when you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then know that its desolation is at hand.
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21 Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let those who are in the middle of her depart. Let those who are in the country not enter therein.
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22 For these are days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.
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23 Woe to those who are pregnant and to those who nurse infants in those days! For there will be great distress in the land, and wrath to this people.
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24 They will fall by the edge of the sword, and will be led captive into all the nations. Jerusalem will be trampled down by the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.
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25 There will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars; and on the earth anxiety of nations, in perplexity for the roaring of the sea and the waves;
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26 men fainting for fear, and for expectation of the things which are coming on the world: for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.
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27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
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28 But when these things begin to happen, look up, and lift up your heads, because your redemption is near.”
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29 He told them a parable. “See the fig tree, and all the trees.
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30 When they are already budding, you see it and know by your own selves that the summer is already near.
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31 Even so you also, when you see these things happening, know that God’s Kingdom is near.
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32 Most certainly I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all things are accomplished.
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33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will by no means pass away.
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34 “So be careful, or your hearts will be loaded down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that day will come on you suddenly.
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35 For it will come like a snare on all those who dwell on the surface of all the earth.
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36 Therefore be watchful all the time, praying that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will happen, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
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37 Every day Jesus was teaching in the temple, and every night he would go out and spend the night on the mountain that is called Olivet.
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38 All the people came early in the morning to him in the temple to hear him.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
The Widow's Offering
In the bustling temple, Jesus notices wealthy individuals donating large sums of money. But he is moved by a poor widow who offers only two tiny coins. He points out that while the rich give generously from their surplus, she has given everything she has to live on. This act of faith and sacrifice stands out, teaching that the value of a gift isn't in its size but in the heart behind it.
Prophecies of Destruction
As the conversation shifts, the disciples admire the temple's grandeur, but Jesus makes a shocking prediction: the temple will be completely destroyed. This prompts them to ask when this will happen. Jesus warns them to be cautious of false prophets claiming to know the time and to remain steadfast amid turmoil. He describes a world fraught with wars, natural disasters, and persecution - an intimidating image of the future.
Call to Endurance
Despite the grim outlook, Jesus encourages perseverance. He assures his followers that their struggles will serve as a testament to their faith. While some will suffer, he promises that not a hair on their heads will perish, emphasizing the importance of endurance. As Jerusalem faces impending doom, he advises those in Judea to flee to safety, foreseeing a time of great distress.
Signs of Redemption
In the midst of these dire predictions, Jesus urges people to look for signs of hope. When they see certain events unfold, they should recognize the nearness of God's Kingdom. He emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and prayerful, as unexpected events can catch people off guard. His words remind us that even in chaos, there is the promise of redemption.
Why It Matters
The Value of Sacrifice
Jesus' observation of the widow teaches us that true generosity comes from the heart. It's not about how much we give but the spirit in which we give it. In our modern lives, this can translate to how we contribute our time, resources, or love to others, regardless of how small those contributions may seem.
Staying Vigilant in Faith
The warnings about false prophets and signs of the times highlight a crucial lesson: we must remain alert and grounded in our beliefs. In a world filled with competing messages and distractions, it's essential to hold on to the core tenets of our faith and seek genuine understanding rather than following trends or fads.
Finding Community
As we navigate life's challenges and the signs of our times, finding a supportive community can make a difference. If you're seeking a place to grow in faith and connect with others, consider using Sancta to find a church near you. Engaging with a community can provide strength and wisdom during uncertain times.
Coming Up Next: Luke 22
As we continue our journey through Luke, the next chapter unfolds a pivotal moment: the Last Supper and the betrayal of Jesus. You won't want to miss the powerful events that lead to the climax of his mission.