leftovers

Daniel 1:1-6,8-20; Ps glory and praise for ever; Luke 21:1-4

"When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, "I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest...for she offered her whole livelihood."


As we approach Thanksgiving, most of us are clearing our refrigerators to make room for leftovers. Let's face it, leftovers are sometimes the best part of holidays.

And as good as leftovers are, Jesus points out in just a few sweet and well placed lines that leftovers don't get it when it comes to God.

The poor widow is the example and model for all of us.

From what she had, she gave.

What about us? How often do we skim when it comes to giving to God?

If there is one thing I learned thus far in ministry, I have never outdone God in generosity. Everything I attempt to give is primarily a simple act of returning the favor.

What we give in some sense is a sign of our appreciation for what we have received.

Instead of making room for leftovers, why not make room for God and go all in. It worked for the widow.