“But she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.” Mark 12:44b 
The story of the widow’s mite reminds me of some teachers who are serving in Church schools I have known. Despite salaries that make it tough to thrive on, they still quietly buy supplies, classroom prizes, curriculum, and sometimes even coats and clothes for their students. Beyond money, teachers often give sacrificially of their time and talents, faithfully serving where many others will not. You’ve probably experienced teachers who are “all in” to their vocation of serving God’s children.

Yet, on our own merits of giving, we cannot raise our head before the Lord and declare righteousness. No quantity of classroom supplies will earn the approval of God. The reason to serve with the kind of commitment role modeled by widow is not that we can be proud of our pious service. That would be like those Sadducee’s earlier in the story. No, we serve because One gave much more than money or time to help others. Jesus Christ gave His very life to save sinners like you, me, the widow and your children and families.

As you serve where God has planted you, may you be regularly refreshed in the Grace He has provided in the body and blood of His very Son? May you serve the children with the same willingness and joy that the widow had as she quietly brought forward her mite. And may you look upon the children and families you serve with the same love that God has for you.

God’s peace,
Mike Zimmer, Mission Facilitator for Schools for the Northern Illinois District

Discussion Questions
What are the qualities of someone who serves God by being “all in?”
How does Christ’s death and resurrection affect your understanding of Grace?
Who around you is hurting, lowly or seemingly outcast yet still needs encouragement?