December 6, 2012 What is Rich?

What is Rich? Luke 21:1-6 As he looked up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. 2 He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 3 “I tell you the truth,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. 4 All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” 5 Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, 6 “As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.” HERE we see great contrast between what God perceives as rich and mankind’s view of rich. The poor widow receives Jesus’ praise because she gave nearly all of her earthly goods. She was a “heart giver”. She gave of herself in love and devotion to God. Even though it looked weird to the world, her gift was beautiful to her Lord. Then the disciples praised the beauty of the buildings. But Jesus viewed the future. He knew the structures would fall against God’s judgment, and in his view, the beautiful stones and adornment symbolized destruction. This contrast in Jesus’ words shows us how vital our heart offerings are to God. Heart offerings are those things we give to God when we sacrifice. We give, and others say, “That’s weird.” It may be our time, spiritual gifts, talents, or money. When we “heart-give” to God, our offerings will make an eternal difference for our lives and for those we serve. Go ahead. Be a Kingdom of God builder. Use what he’s given you. Trust God with all you have—even if it looks weird to the world. It’s True! You are rich in God's gifts to you. Use them.