What is our purpose when we give or do something good? Is it because we are obliged? Is it out of pity? Is it because we desire recognition or praise from others—pakitang tao? Or is it simply because we love?
Dear brothers and sisters, today's Gospel invites us to reflect on the true motive behind our giving and our actions. Why do we offer what we have to God and others? The poor widow in the Gospel demonstrates unconditional generosity. She gives all she has—her last two coins—despite knowing it may lead to hunger or even death. Jesus declares that her offering is more valuable than all the larger contributions because she gave not from her surplus, but from her poverty—her whole livelihood.
This Gospel transcends the message of generosity. It calls us to offer ourselves wholeheartedly for God's glory. Trusting in His plan and believing in His ways is the best thing we can do. Being generous with our time, talents, and effort for His sake is the most unconditional and intangible love we can offer Him.
I can relate this to the journey of priesthood and seminary life. During the Mass of our official acceptance into the seminary, our rector shared a powerful message: "God is not looking for your ability, but for your availability. Be generous enough." This echoes the message of the Gospel: true generosity means being willing to offer everything we have, trusting in God's plan, even through struggles, including poverty.
May we, like the widow, choose to be givers rather than receivers. May we be courageous enough to offer everything to the Lord and trust in His ways. God answers our prayers—not always as we expect, but in the way that is best for us. Despite the challenges we face, including poverty, may we choose to be generous, trusting that God will provide for all our needs.
Let us pray: May we have the faith and courage of the widow, willing to offer all we have to the Lord, and may we trust that, in His wisdom, He will guide and provide for us according to His will.
