Luke 21 – Offering and Warning

Luke 21 begins with Jesus in the temple. He witnesses many of the wealthy placing their offering in the temple treasury. When He witnesses a poor widow place two tiny copper coins in, He noted to His companions how she had given far more than the others, for they gave out of their excess whereas she gave all that she had. The remainder of the chapter is dedicated to Jesus sharing with the disciples what the end times would be like. He let them know there would be many warning signs to recognize, and the faithful will be persecuted and betrayed. After all the signs and warnings, people will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud. Jesus told them that they would know what is happening when they see the signs. He warned them to watch and pray and be ready so that they could stand before Him when He returns. “Each day Jesus was teaching at the temple, and each evening He went out to spend the night on the hill called the Mount of Olives, and all the people came early in the morning to hear Him at the temple.” (Luke 21:37-38)

Lowly poor widow,

gave all that she had;

a heart full of trust,

that made Jesus glad.

For most who gave gifts,

did not feel a loss;

the faithful widow,

paid ultimate cost.

It makes me wonder,

what her life became;

to receive mention,

the Lord knew her name.

I choose imagine,

that God intervened;

and cared for her needs,

for she had been seen.

Each act of worship,

that we choose to give;

is known by the Lord,

and transformative.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for sending Your Son to show us how to live, love, and give. Thank You that You remind us to remain faithful and aware, and provide what we need to keep following after You. Forgive us for the times that we have lacked generosity. Teach us to trust You to show us what to do and to provide what we need. Lead us in Your love to love those around us well. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we praise You for being our Provider, and for preparing our hearts for Your return. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. – 2 Corinthians 9:6