By Thamwar Monsang csc.
Readings: Dan 1:1-6, 8-20; Lk 21:1-4
Pope Francis in his Apostolic exhortation Evangelii Gaudium (the Joy of the Gospel), emphasized the importance of solidarity with the poor and the need for a preferential option for the marginalized and vulnerable in society. He used the story of the poor widow’s offering to highlight the significance of giving from one’s poverty and to underscore the principles of charity and humility. For Jesus, the two coins, which the poor widow gave, meant a lot because she gave out of her poverty.
Jesus values the intention behind our actions, rather than the quantity of what we give. We cannot deceive Jesus because he sees our hearts and he knows our minds. It is observed that the poor often tend to give to others what they have freely and generously. This is because they understand the value of giving and helping others in need. In Lumen Gentium we read, “For our Lord Jesus, chose strict poverty in his life. He carried out the work of redemption in poverty so that the Church also may follow the same path in communicating to men the fruits of salvation.”
This statement emphasizes that Jesus chose to live a life of poverty and that the Church should follow his example to communicate the message of salvation to people. Most of Jesus’ friends and followers were poor and many of his rich disciples made themselves poor to imitate him. And as his true followers, we also are called to live like them to have only what we need and give the extra to the needy.