Jesus said to his disciples, “This poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For all of them have given out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty. (Mark 12:43,44)

This is a true story related to me by a nursing friend:

Student nurses were instructed not to accept any gift from a patient. Only once did I disobey this rule. Rosie was destitute. She spoke of her family but no one else visited her. She was dying from the consequences of an arduous life. Watching her solitary vigil evoked my admiration and affection. We talked of life, of death and of God.

One day she began rummaging through a shabby change purse. “I want you to have this,” she said, handing me a shiny new quarter. “I was saving it for my granddaughter, but she isn’t coming.” I started to hand it back, but the delight of her expression halted my hand in mid-air. I realized that refusing her gift would be one more rejection in the life of a woman who knew rejection all too well. A few days later, Rosie died.

That was over 20 years ago. I still have the quarter, and occasionally I look at it and remember. I think of the woman in the temple who gave her two mites and wonder if she gave with the same attitude as Rosie. The act of giving made Rosie’s face radiate with joy, and through it God taught me a lesson I have never forgotten; the joy of giving can be realized only if there is a receiver.

Most generous and loving Creator, help us to give of our time, our talents and our possessions and money. Help us also to be willing to graciously receive that others might experience the joy of giving!