First Baptist Church of Herndon

When Less Really is More

Linda Soller | Feb 24, 2025

I am reading a book, a memoir, and the author has been called to serve God in great ways. As I read, I sometimes think how wonderful it is that God has people like her to do His work with such enthusiasm. Other times I think, in comparison I do so little. At times like these I find it's helpful to remember some of the Bible stories we have heard since we were children. In this case I think of the poor widow women giving a half penny as her offering. It was really so much less than all those around her. Yet, it was so much more. Jesus observed her giving and knowing it was all she had He used it to illustrate sacrificial giving. While He watched others "give from their wealth” He saw her give from her poverty, everything she had to live off of. (The story appears twice in the Bible - Luke 21:1-4 and Mark 12: 41-44). Four short verses in two books, but the message has always been one of the loudest to me.

The author of the book I am reading has done much and has put her gifts to great use. Her life has not been an easy one but her dedication to serving God is as natural to her as breathing. We talk often of giving of our time, talents, and resources. The story of the poor widow proves what we hear. We each are charged to contribute what we can to God's work. For some of us it may not feel like very much, for others it may bring personal fame, maybe wealth, and a satisfaction that others only seek. While it's true it doesn't lessen the value of the small gifts, the often unnoticed service, the efforts that God sees which other humans may not.

When questioning your gifts, your calling, or possibly your faith I encourage you to remember the poor widow. Her less was so much more than most of those around her. No matter what you contribute, no matter how you contribute, remember in God's eyes there are many times when less really is more.

Be strong in the Lord and be kind!
Linda