Hello everyone and peace!
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This Sunday’s Gospel shows the growing tension between Jesus and the Jewish leaders. Jesus is teaching in the Temple area and warns the people not to follow the example of the scribes, who seek attention and praise from others. It’s important to note that Jesus is delivering these teachings in Jerusalem near the Temple, foreshadowing the events of his upcoming Passion.
As Jesus observes pilgrims making offerings to the Temple treasury, he notices that wealthier people are able to give large sums, while those with less can only give smaller amounts. In Jesus’ time, the Temple was the center of Jewish worship, and making contributions was an important practice. Pilgrims would visit to offer prayers and sacrifices and contribute to the Temple’s upkeep.
Jesus then highlights the offering of a poor widow who gives just two small coins-an amount far less than others, yet incredibly meaningful. Jesus commends her for giving out of her livelihood, not from extra wealth, showing profound generosity and trust in God. By giving from her need, the widow embodies true faith, much like Jesus, who will soon demonstrate the ultimate trust and sacrifice by giving his life on the cross.