by Ruth
Whenever I read the story of the widow’s mites in the Gospel of Mark 12:41-44 and Luke 21:1-4, I’m inspired to contribute more to God’s kingdom. Many Christians are familiar with the tale. A poor widow donated two small copper coins—often called “mites”—to the temple treasury. Jesus commented to His disciples that this insignificant contribution was worth more than those given by the wealthy, for she gave out of her poverty all that she had to live on.
The widow’s act was not about the monetary value but the spirit with which she gave. Her contribution reflected deep trust and reliance on God, embodying the essence of true charity: giving not from excess but from the heart, even when it requires personal sacrifice.
This impactful lesson reminds me that entering retirement with limited energy and resources should not be an excuse to hinder my devotion to God and others, and that I could still continue to contribute in the Kingdom of God. The value of a gift lies not in its size, but in the selflessness and faith behind it.
While the widow’s mite teaches us about biblical times, the story of Hattie Wiatt brings this lesson to life in a more contemporary setting. In the late 1800s, Hattie May Wiatt was a young girl who lived near what is now Temple University in Philadelphia. She couldn’t attend Sunday school regularly due to the overcrowding of her small church with too many people. With a strong conviction, Hattie began saving her pennies with the hope of one day helping expand the Sunday school facilities.
Tragically, Hattie passed away at eight. After her death, her family found a small bag containing 57 pennies and a note explaining her intent in her room. They gave it to Dr. Russell H. Conwell, pastor of the local Grace Baptist Church. Deeply moved by her selfless aspiration, Dr. Conwell shared Hattie’s story with his congregation.
Hattie’s 57-cent contribution sowed the seeds for an incredible transformation. The congregation rallied to raise funds. With three of Hattie’s cents auctioned off, they raised $250. The amount was then converted into pennies and auctioned off by the newly formed “Wiatt Mite Society.” What might have seemed like an inconsequential sum ultimately led to the founding of a new church, Temple University, a hospital, and other facilities.
Both the widow’s mite and Hattie Wiatt’s 57 cents teach that the most meaningful acts of kindness and generosity often originate from those who seem to have the least to spare. Indeed, true generosity is measured not by the balance of our bank accounts but by the depth of our compassion and the willingness to give, irrespective of our means. Our small actions can set in motion profound change, echoing through generations.
