The Heart of the Matter: Jesus’ Teachings on Money and Generosity
As we explore the teachings of Jesus, one theme emerges time and again: the importance of generosity and freedom from the love of money. In fact, Jesus taught that the more sacrificially generous we are on earth, the greater our enjoyment of heaven will be.
A Widow’s Offering: A Lesson in Sacrifice
One powerful example of this principle can be found in the story of the widow’s offering (Mark 12:41-44). Jesus watched as many rich people put large sums into the offering box, but a poor widow caught his attention. She put in just two small copper coins, which was all she had to live on. Yet, Jesus declared that she had put in more than all the others because she gave out of her poverty, not her abundance.
The Value of a Gift: Measured by Sacrifice
This story teaches us that the value of a gift is not measured by its size, but by its sacrifice. The widow’s offering was significant because it represented a greater proportion of her resources. This principle is echoed in Jesus’ teaching that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:21; Luke 12:34).
Jesus’ Concern with Money: A Matter of the Heart
Why did Jesus place such emphasis on what we do with our money? It’s because our financial decisions reveal where our hearts are. When we prioritize wealth and material possessions, we risk serving money rather than God. As Jesus warned, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money” (Matt. 6:24).
Serving God, Not Money
What does it mean to serve God rather than money? It means looking to God as our helper, benefactor, and treasure. We plan, dream, and strategize to maximize our enjoyment of God and what he promises to be for us. In contrast, serving money means relying on it to meet our needs and provide for our security.
Money as an Alternative to God
Throughout history, money has represented the alternative to God as the treasure of our hearts. It’s a threat to our obedience to the first and last of the Ten Commandments: “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exod. 20:3), and “You shall not covet” (Exod. 20:17). What we do with our money is crucial because it signals where our worship is.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teachings on money and generosity challenge us to reevaluate our priorities and values. As we seek to follow him, let us remember that true treasure lies in heaven, not on earth. May our financial decisions reflect our commitment to serving God, not money, and may our hearts be set on the things that truly matter.
Leave a Reply