The Widow's Best

From her poverty she gave more than they Who gave of their wealth, who gave from their best; All she had to live on, she gave away. Their offering was a giving display Giving to show they had more than the rest; From her poverty, she gave more than they. For they fill their hearts with what other's say The real treasure buried 'neath their vest; All she had to live on, she gave away. The crashing of shekels like a surf's spray Washes in praise as they empty their chest; From her poverty, she gave more than they. Round the Temple's court, the Rabbi's eyes stray To one who gives from how much she's been blessed; All she had to live on she gave away. He wonders at one who gives, freely lays Down her living, no trouble or unrest; From her poverty, she gave more than they All she had to live on, she gave away.

© Randy Edwards 2017. Artwork: James Tissot, The Widow's Mite (Le denier de la veuve), 1886-1894, Brooklyn Museum. #poetry #villanelle #christianity #lent #passionweek #gospelofluke