41 And he took a seat by the place where the money was kept, and saw how the people put money into the boxes: and a number who had wealth put in much. 42 And there came a poor widow, and she put in two little bits of money, which make a farthing. 43 And he made his disciples come to him, and said to them, Truly I say to you, This poor widow has put in more than all those who are putting money into the box: 44 Because they all put in something out of what they had no need for; but she out of her need put in all she had, even all her living.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Mark 12:41-44
Commentary on Mark 12:41-44
(Read Mark 12:41-44)
Let us not forget that Jesus still sees the treasury. He knows how much, and from what motives, men give to his cause. He looks at the heart, and what our views are, in giving alms; and whether we do it as unto the Lord, or only to be seen of men. It is so rare to find any who would not blame this widow, that we cannot expect to find many who will do like to her; and yet our Saviour commends her, therefore we are sure that she did well and wisely. The feeble efforts of the poor to honour their Saviour, will be commended in that day, when the splendid actions of unbelievers will be exposed to contempt.