NOTES for Mar 12:38-44

Jesus warns the disciples against becoming like the teachers of the law, who are so fond of outward displays of piety. They pray to be seen, while at the same time depriving widows of their property. On the inside they prove to be quite different from what they appear on the outside. The Lord warns His disciples against this division. He immediately points them to a completely different example: the widow who gives two small coins. Outwardly these coins are worth almost nothing and make no difference to the treasury of the Jerusalem Temple. But behind them lies true value—a real sacrifice to God, because this woman gave everything she had.

We often judge by appearances, drawing conclusions from external factors. Before taking the time to understand the true state of things, which does not always lie on the surface, we make hasty judgments. Only the Lord can decide whose sacrifice is more pleasing, whose suffering is more complete and whose sin is more serious. After all, even His closest followers were not discerning enough to see the greatest giver in a poor woman.