C O M P E T I T I V E    I N V E S T M E N T S

Mark 12:41-44

If athletic talent could be measured in dollars and cents, who would be the richest player that you know?  How generous is that player in relation to her teammates?  Who would be the poorest player that you know?  How generous is that person toward others?

Jesus speaks of a similar contrast between rich and poor in Mark chapter 12 and verses 41 through 44.  “Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury.  Many rich people threw in large amounts.  But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins worth only a fraction of a penny.  Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, ‘I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others.  They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything - all she had to live on.”

Why does it seem that often the poorest of us make the deepest investments in the team?  It happens all the time.  Often the least talented among us are the best teammates and give to others most generously.  It’s no surprise; Jesus saw it in His day as well.

Let me challenge you today.  Whether athletically rich or poor, invest deeply in your team collectively and in your teammates individually.  Give it all away in pursuit of a great team victory.

Bible Reading Plan:
Matthew 2:1-12
Psalm 3
Genesis 5-8