November 9, 2024

Dear Church Family,
Today, we gather to explore a
profound story from the Bible that
speaks to the heart of our faith and
commitment to God. In Mark 12,
we encounter a remarkable widow
who, despite her limited means,
chose to give everything she had as
an offering to the Lord. This story is
not just about the act of giving; it is a powerful
testament to faithfulness and trust in God.

The widow’s offering was just two small coins, yet Jesus
highlighted her gift as greater than all the others given
that day. Why? Because her offering was not measured
by its monetary value but by the depth of her faith. She
exemplified that true generosity comes from the heart
and is rooted in a profound trust in God’s provision. In a
world that often equates success with wealth, her story
reminds us that God does not measure our gifts in
terms of quantity but in terms of sacrifice and sincerity.

Being faithful to God through our tithes and offerings
has never been about the money itself; after all, God
does not need our finances. Instead, it is an expression
of our faith and a reflection of our relationship with
Him. When we give, we are symbolically saying, “Lord, I
trust You with my life.” It is an act of surrender,
acknowledging that everything we have is a gift from
Him, and in return, we choose to honor Him with our
resources.

As we delve deeper into this story today, I will share
how giving everything I have to God has transformed my
life and enriched my marriage. The blessings that come
from a heart aligned with God’s purposes are
immeasurable. When we prioritize our relationship with
Him and demonstrate our faith through our giving, we
open ourselves to receive His abundant blessings in
ways we could never have imagined.

May this Sabbath serve as a reminder of God’s
unwavering faithfulness to us. Just as the widow’s act of
giving was a profound declaration of her faith, let us also
strive to be faithful stewards of what God has entrusted
to us. As we reflect on this powerful story, may we be
inspired to give generously and wholeheartedly, trusting
that God will provide for our every need.

Wishing you all a blessed Sabbath filled with peace and
joy.

In Christ’s love,
Pastor Raul Alvarez