Embody the Humility of John the Baptist

Eldho Augustine csc –

Readings: 1 Kgs 17:10-16; Heb 9:2428; Mk 12:41-44

Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the nature of generosity.

In the first reading, the widow of Zarephath shares her last morsel with the prophet Elijah, embodying faith and sacrificial love. Similarly, in the gospel passage, the poor widow gives two small coins to the temple treasury. Jesus highlights that her offering, though meagre, surpasses those of the wealthy because she gives all she has to live on. Both widows teach us that true generosity is not measured by the amount we give but by the spirit behind our giving.

Pope Francis reminds us that generosity is about giving ourselves fully to God and others. We must ask ourselves: Are we sacrificing our best, or merely what is easy to part with? If our giving stems from hidden agendas, our gifts may lack true value in God’s eyes. For those of us in leaderships, we must be cautious of becoming like the scribes, focused more on status than service.

Instead, let us embody the humility of John the Baptist, who said, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” In embracing the lessons of the widows, we are challenged to examine the authenticity of our generosity and the motivations behind our actions. True giving invites us to diminish our own desires to uplift others, reflecting the selfless love that lies at the heart of our faith.