Holy Week Devotion – Tuesday Morning (April 15, 2025)

Scripture:

“Jesus answered, ‘The most important is: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.”’”

— Mark 12:29–30 (ESV)

“And Jesus sat down opposite the treasury and watched the crowd putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two small coins, which make a penny.”

— Mark 12:41–42 (ESV)

Reflection:

Tuesday of Holy Week wasn’t marked by grand ceremonies, but by profound moments of teaching and observation. When the religious leaders pressed Jesus with questions, He didn’t get drawn into their traps. Instead, He pointed them—and us—back to the foundation of faith: loving God fully. This love isn’t just an emotion we feel on holy days. It’s a commitment, a way of life. Jesus reminds us that loving God means offering all we are: heart, soul, mind, and strength.

Then, as the temple courtyard bustled with activity, Jesus watched a widow quietly give her offering. To others, her coins were almost meaningless. But Jesus saw her heart. She gave everything she had, not out of obligation, but out of love. Her trust was deep, her faith was real, and her offering—though small—was precious in God’s sight.

As we walk through Holy Week, these moments challenge us. How are we loving God with all that we are? What are we holding back? The widow’s gift and Jesus’ reminder of the greatest commandment teach us that true devotion isn’t measured by how much we have, but by how much of ourselves we give.

Prayer:

Lord, help me to love You fully, with my whole heart, soul, mind, and strength. Teach me to give all that I have, even when it feels small. Let my life be a reflection of trust in Your provision and of a love that holds nothing back. Thank You for seeing me and valuing even the simplest offerings I bring. Amen.

Greek Word:

ἀγαπάω (agapaō) — to love deeply, unconditionally, sacrificially

This word reflects the pure, selfless love that Jesus calls us to have for God and others.

Hebrew Word:

אָהַב (’ahav) — to love, desire, delight in

Central to the Shema, it speaks of a loyal, wholehearted love that shapes every part of our lives.