Luke 21:1-9
When Jesus came to Jerusalem, we went to the temple to praise God. He sees people putting their gifts into the treasury box. Although Jesus is watching people put their gifts into the box, he is not looking at what they put in but at their hearts.
What is the difference between the widow's heart and others putting in their gifts. The widow was unlikely to support herself because at that time in history most women could not work. Yet, the widow still acknowledges that everything comes from God. Because of this understanding and acceptance, the widow can give all that she has to God.
We see another instance of The women who breaks the alabaster jar of perfume and anoints Jesus head and feet with the perfume shows another person who was willing to give all.
For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”
Luke 21:4 ESV
Jesus is not telling us to become poor or that it is better to be poor. Jesus wants our hearts. It is more important what is on our heart rather than how much we put in. Jesus does not need our money.
God knows everything about us, and so does Jesus. Jesus knows what is in our hearts whether we believe this or not. No one but Jesus can judge you when you give. For those who only pretend to give the best to God, they are known to God and cannot trick him..
And while some were speaking of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, he said, “As for these things that you see, the days will come when there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down.”
Luke 21:5-6 ESV
Jesus had a different view than others. Jesus understand that many Pharisees and priests denied Jesus and the temple that was adorned with the costly gifts did not impress Him. Jesus could see past the material wealth and its transient nature. Jesus was looking for pure worship and not a building.
The temple that is true and has the spirit of God in its worshippers is what Jesus seeks. The early Christians worshipped in the basements but because they worshipped in truth and spirit, Jesus was more impressed with those places of worship. Many try to worship God with building beautiful places of worship, but it is the heart that Jesus looks at.
And he said, “See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am he!’ and, ‘The time is at hand!’ Do not go after them. And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for these things must first take place, but the end will not be at once.”
Luke 21:8-9 ESV
This part may seem disheartening, but John's letter of Revelation shows us that eventually these heresies will end. We must trust in Jesus and test these teachings. Hard times will come. We understand that these things will happen, yet we do not need to worry or be afraid. Jesus will return.
Focusing on the persecution and hardships will unsettle us, but focusing on Jesus will keep us grounded in joy, hope and salvation. As always, we need to focus on Jesus to remain in true worship with a true heart.
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