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Scribes and the Poor Widow (Mk. 12:38-44)

'In the course of his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext, recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation.”  He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, “Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood (Mk. 12:38-44).”’

In these passages Jesus contrasted the behavior of some of the scribes, the interpreters of the OT Law, and the generosity and sacrifice of the poor widow.  The scribes were the ancient Jewish equivalent of lawyers and would serve as trustees to widows estates.  Some of them were pretentious and vain, and loved puffing up themselves in public pretending to be pious so they could improve their chances of being hired.  They will be condemned at the last judgment.  The widow’s true faith and complete reliance on God is in direct contrast to the conduct of the scribes.  She contributed all the money she had in support of the Temple.  She made a real sacrifice.  

Almighty God, grant us the sincerity of faith to give of our time, talent, and treasure out of love for you and the Body of Christ.  This we pray through Christ our Lord.  Amen!

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References:

Raymond E. Brown, Joseph A. Fitzmyer, & Roland E. Murphy, (Eds.). (1990, 1968). The New Jerome Biblical Commentary. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey: Prentis Hall, Inc.

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