A Poem a Sunday

November 8, 2015

Lectionary 32 / Pentecost 24

Mark 12:38-44 - New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

Commentary:  Mark tells us how Jesus uses children and now a widow as examples of faith and generosity.  Christ does not shy away from exposing the hypocrisy of the religious leaders through contrast with the marginalized.   The Kingdom comes near through the humble and simple, yet profound gifts of widows and children.  The poem reflects those aspects of God’s reign.

Jesus Denounces the Scribes

38 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, 39 and to have the best seats in the synagogues and places of honor at banquets! 40 They devour widows’ houses and for the sake of appearance say long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.”

The Widow’s Offering

41 He sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the crowd putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 A poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which are worth a penny. 43 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. 44 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.”

A Poem a Sunday

November 8, 2015

Lectionary 32 / Pentecost 24

Offering

Sunday School

the Widow’s Mite

counting coins

by candlelight.

Lenten offerings

in a box

childhood dreams

during Chicken Pox.

Mission money

for distant lands;

coloring pictures,

making clay plate hands.

Silent prayers

in a silent room.

Far away missions,

distant moons.

Churchly innocence,

simple gifts.

Bulletin covers

preview mission trips.

The mighty mite,

did it make a difference?

For a poor man’s plight,

or a rich man’s preference?

They were never a show -

these Sunday School offerings;

but taught us to go

where people are suffering.

Learn a lesson

from the Widow’s Mite

from Sunday School sessions

and a child’s insight.

A Poem a Sunday – November 2, 2015 – Kenn Storck