Homily for Monday of the 34th Week in Ordinary Time

The phrase "widow's mite" is based on the Gospel passage we just heard. This phrase illustrates the paradox that sometimes people who give the most are actually giving very little, while others who give a little are actually giving an enormous amount.

In terms of money, the widow gave less than everyone else to the temple treasury, but in reality, she gave a large amount because she gave everything she had.

This paradox holds true even in our own lives. There are times when we may appear to be giving very little, but in reality, we are giving a lot because we are giving as much as we can. Our health may be troubling us, or our energy level may be low due to some personal issues we are struggling with. What we have within ourselves to give is much less than usual. Even in these situations, giving a little of ourselves can be equivalent to giving a great deal.

The widow in today's gospel reminds us that even when we have little to give, we can still be extremely generous.