Lessons From My Eight Year Old

Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
~ Mark 12:41-44 ~ NIV

This portion of Scripture reminds me of my daughter. When Hannah was in third grade, her teacher Ms. Dettmer announced to the class that there was another third grade girl in need. The girl was sick and in need of medical treatment. The expenses were burdening the family. Ms. Dettmer asked the kids to bring in their change if they wanted to help out.

Hannah came home that day and said, “Mom, there’s a girl at school that is sick. Our teacher asked if we could bring in our money. I want to give all of mine.” I told Hannah to pray about it and tell me in the morning what God said to do. I told her she could give some, half or all.

In the morning, Hannah said, “Mom, look in my money box. I prayed about it.”

When I opened up her purse, it was empty. Not a cent remained. She gave it all. All of her birthday cash and allowance. $110.00. Not a small amount for an eight year old.

I cried.

God taught me about giving through Hannah. I wanted to convince her to keep some. But I couldn’t. I knew God was using her. She was thrilled to present her zippy bag to the teacher. Ms. Dettmer called me when she counted Hannah’s money. I retold the story.

Lessons like this will never be forgotten. No wonder the Bible talks about having faith like a child.

Thank you, Beloved Mama, for hosting this week’s In “Other” Words.