Favor (Mark 12:38-44)
“Watch out for the teachers of the Law!” The Lord knew Jerusalem was going to be destroyed. They were seized by a sense of religious superiority and liked to be greeted by others. They sat in places of honor and were entertained wherever they went. They devoured poor widows and stole their property. Furthermore, they pretended to be holy by purposely making lengthy prayers in front of others! There was no longer hope in Jerusalem while these people governed there.
1. The Lord’s fury
After Jesus spoke about the teachers of the Law, He saw a widow putting two copper coins into the temple treasury. He said, “This poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.” When Jesus said this, He was not just emphasizing about donations. He was furious that the Jewish leaders did not care for the weak and were only interested in promoting themselves.
2. The Lord’s patience
God did not destroy Jerusalem and was patient. Why is this? This is because there was a minority of people who sought God’s favor with earnest hearts. Like the poor widow – they acknowledged that they were sinners and were grateful for God’s grace, even though they were disdained by Judaism. This is the same today. While the church experiences many hardships, it survives because a minority of believers truly repent, earnestly seek God’s grace and offer themselves to God.
3. The Lord’s memory
This is not only about gratitude for the grace we received. If a person continues acknowledging that he cannot live without God’s grace, God will open His favor and heart to him. Therefore, let’s offer ourselves to God with a sincere heart, even if others cannot see. Instead of exalting ourselves above others, let’s show how we are hoping for God to remember us. Let’s make God’s favor shine on the whole church by bearing fruit worthy of repentance.
December 19, 2021
Overseer Sung-Hyun Kim
