1. Beware of the teachers of the law (20:45-47)

The disciples may have been secretly envious of the flowing robes, respect, and position the religious leaders flaunted. But Jesus wanted his disciples to see beyond appearances to the motives of the heart. The religious leaders' devotion to God was rooted in a desire for honor and praise. They devoured widow's houses through their religious traditions (Mk. 7:11-13). Jesus says: 'Beware!' Their lives were a warning for his disciples. Such people would be punished most severely.

2. This widow put in more than the others (21:1-4)

Jesus turned his attention to the place where gifts for the temple were placed. He saw the rich putting in their gifts, but it was the two very small coins of a destitute widow that caught his admiration. He wanted his disciples to see and notice this woman's act of faith and devotion. In contrast with the religious leaders whose acts were done before people's eyes, this woman put her trust and hope in God, whose heart goes out to widows and the poor.


Application: Father, I am easily distracted by what people think or say. Help me seek your praise and admiration by trusting in your grace and devoting myself to you.
One Word: Jesus sees our acts of faith