Widows Houses

Mark 12:38-44

I have heard many sermons concerning “The Widow’s Mite,” preachings on how, like the widow that gave her last two coins to the temple treasury, we too are to give everything, sometimes our whole lives. These things are of course things preached by Jesus elsewhere. He tells his disciples that they must take up their crosses and follow him (Mark 8:34). He tells the rich young ruler to sell everything he has, give the money to the poor, and then to come follow him (Mark 10:21). But is this what he is preaching at this moment?

If we read verse 41-44 in isolation, you could make the case that this was indeed the deeply spiritual point of his teaching. However, if we look at it in context, i.e. reading it after verse 38-40, we are forced to see that Jesus means something quite different- forcing us to reevaluate how we preach and teach this passage. It’s like one of my professors once said, “The bible can ruin some of the best sermons.”

Jesus in these preceding verses speaks harshly regarding religious leaders and systems that take advantage of the poor. He says, “They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.” and after this statement, he draws everyone’s attention to the fact that this widow has given everything she has to live on, her whole life- essentially pointing out that the temple system is devouring this widow!

Jesus ridiculed a system that took advantage of the most dispossessed people among them. But are we able to see that his critique must still be preached today? What people and what systems are in place today that ask for such an allegiance that bolsters the riches and pride of men while dispossessing the already down trodden? And are we preaching and hailing the success of these people and systems or are we preaching for the needs of the poor? Jesus has shown us what he condemns, may we be faithful enough to do likewise.

Announcements:

• Music for Sunday, April 26

  • This Sunday is an open opportunity for any who would like to join us up front in leading the music/worship experience here at CBC! If you would like to join in vocally and/or instrumentally, please text or call Marilyn Davidson at 907.539.2386 and plan to be at the church for rehearsal at 9AM on Sunday morning. It would be great to have a group and all are welcome!

• Mothers’ Day

  • For the past two years, the women of CBC have led all aspects of the service on Mothers’ Day. Would you like to join us this Mothers’ Day, May 10? Please let Marilyn know by texting or calling her at 907.539.2386 and letting her know what role or roles you would be comfortable with taking. We’ll be looking for 2-3 short messages, scripture readers, ushers, musicians, prayer leaders, and if you have a reading that you would like to provide that would also be welcome. If someone is inspired to provide a children’ s sermon that would also be great.

• Link to the CBC Calendar

• I am so proud of our church and the way we came together to create a worshipful experience in so many ways during Holy Week. Thank you everyone! We are a strong and faithful church!

• We will be having a night of fun for our kids on May 22 (a Friday) from 5-7. The aim is to be low-key with video games and a movie… and even some pizza for good measure.

• The School District has asked pastors to share the opportunity for an upcoming event concerning Suicide Prevention. The flyer below will provide you with more information

• The Christian School has emailed all pastors in the area in order to spread the word that they are looking for a preschool teacher and an administrator assistant.

  • The flyer below will give more information

• Pastor Steven is looking for a family that is willing to host a weekly Bible Study/time of fellowship

  • This could be a great thing to invite the hesitant church-goers to

  • If you are interested in hosting this, let Pastor Steven know

Church Weekly Schedule

• Sunday worship at 11am

• Sunday School at 9:45am

  • I am teaching through the Gospel According to Matthew

  • Youth/Children’s Group! Daniel and Emily Mendez are heading up the Youth Group Bible Study at 9:45

• Wednesday Prayer Posse 12pm

• Trail Life each Sunday from 2-3pm

• Pastor Steven’s Office Hours 8-4 Mon-Thursday

  • I have an open sign (if it is on, I am here)

  • If I am not in the office at these times, I am meeting with someone

  • Call or text me 972-921-2516

  • Email steven@kodiakcbc.org