Do you ever feel like you have nothing to offer? I can only imagine how the widow felt that day in the Temple, watching the others pass by on their way to the collection box, dressed in their luxurious clothes. As she watched them donate large sums of money to the Temple funds, making sure everyone noticed their generosity, I wouldn’t be surprised if the widow felt embarrassed and inadequate.
All she had to offer was a tiny amount – two copper coins. It hardly seemed worth her while. She could have held onto her money out of shame that she had nothing more to offer. She could have kept it for food or other necessities. She could have left the Temple behind forever, feeling that she didn’t belong with all these people who had so much more to give. But instead, she chose to offer what she had.
Quietly she dropped in her two little coins and went on her way – no fuss, no song and dance. It seemed that her offering went unnoticed, and I’m sure she would have preferred it that way. But Jesus saw, and God sees the heart! Because not only did Jesus see, but He knew. He knew the struggles she faced – the pain of losing her husband and the extent of her poverty. He knew exactly how much her tiny gift had cost her. In earthly terms it was insignificant, but in heavenly terms, it was treasure because she offered what she had.
This is why our annual Silent Auction that begins this weekend is so important. It is not just our single largest fundraising event, but it sustains us, our mission, and exemplifies our radical welcome to everyone and simultaneously show the world that we are in it together! No matter what may come, no matter what the need, no matter who is unable or able, we sustain a parish like no other: Saint Miriam.
Our willingness to spend a few minutes as we begin to turn toward Thanksgiving and all that we are grateful for, and bid on some wonderful, donated items that rival many larger corporations, will literally impact children and those struggling with homelessness and allow us to remain here for a little while longer! We bid on items all the while knowing that every penny earned goes to support a mission we can believe in. This is who we welcome at our doors and to our altar. God asked us to welcome the foreigner among us. It is more than a request, it is a Gospel mandate.
Join us and show the world that no human is trash. Together, by our attendance and participation, we will raise funds to continue the work of the holy church, where people and planet are cared for, prayed for, and cherished.
Father Jim