Jesus gathered His disciples and told them that the poor widow had put in more than all of those who had put money in, because the rich put in of their excess (or, as we might say nowadays, their pocket change), however, the widow generously put in all that she had. She may have even gone without, so she could give.

First, we can think of the first and great commandment – to “love the Lord thy God with all thine heart”. When we give tithing or offerings to our church, we are giving to help the kingdom of God to grow and we are also giving to help the poor. When we give, do we give generously? Do we ever choose to go without a few things, so we can give to the poor? Next, we should remember the second commandment “love thy neighbor as thyself”. How often do we give money to help others. Also, if we do give money to help others, do we give “so that we may be seen of men” (Matthew 5:5). In other words, do we give so others will see how amazing we are? If so, as Jesus says, we have our reward (Matthew 6:5). Or, do we give because we love others and truly want to help them? Here are some ideas of how to give anonymously so as to receive a reward from God. One way is to get a cashier’s check or cash and leave the money on your neighbor’s doorstep. You can also try to give service anonymously. Sometimes to serve others, you have to be seen. The key question is, do you do it so others will think you are amazing, or do you do it because you truly love those you serve? These are the questions that God looks at as we serve.