Here’s a poem from my book, Negotiating the Shadows. It’s based on the Mark text for this week.
A Widow’s Wisdom
a simple offering
outweighed all others
combined
two copper coins
almost without value
took on significance
she gave to You
all she had
with intent
others offered bits
pieces of notable
value
thinking they honor You
and themselves
giving what they will not miss
in abundance
they missed
abundantly
the widow’s gift
lies unseen today
many cling to little
in hopes of more
or less
fear of losing
everything of importance
but gaining nothing of value
Your words were simple
directed at your followers
then and now
witnesses to You
two worthless coins
mean everything
when there is nothing else
to give
true life requires giving
to You
in abundance
without fear of emptiness
with trust and gratitude
for You offer
life
abundant
where two small coins
have value
and one poor woman
has purpose
and wisdom
blessing
any and all who see her
as You did
giving every little bit
for the possibility
You hold out
to any and all
who give You
two copper coins
(or everything we have
and everything we are)
RCL – Year B – Twenty-fourth Sunday after Pentecost – November 8, 2015
Ruth 3:1-5; 4:13-17
Psalm 127
1 Kings 17:8-16
Psalm 146
Hebrews 9:24-28
Mark 12:38-44
Photos from Pixabay. Used with permission.
Beautiful
Thank you!
I love the simplicity in what you have written, and how it takes that little story in Mark and expands it to mean all it can mean. And, on and on the messages flow, and all we have to do is hear them….and follow them to hold that peace that transcends all (human) understanding. I pray to have the wisdom to know how I do this….as I struggle with the web that is holding me to the world I see, not my home.
Thank you, Jackie. May you continue to walk in the light of God.