Gospel in Art: A poverty-stricken widow put in two small coins

A Widow's Mite, by John Everett Millais, 1870 © Alamy / Birmingham Museums Trust

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 25 November 2024
Luke 21:1-4

As Jesus looked up, he saw rich people putting their offerings into the treasury; then he happened to notice a poverty-stricken widow putting in two small coins, and he said, 'I tell you truly, this poor widow has put in more than any of them; for these have all contributed money they had over, but she from the little she had has put in all she had to live on.'

Reflection on the painting

The widow who offered everything she had to live on in the temple treasury can be seen as a reflection of Jesus, who gave his entire life to God and for God's people. Though her contribution was small in monetary terms-just two coins-her act of giving was more generous than the larger sums others provided, as she gave her all, just as Jesus would give his all. Her example reminds us that true generosity is not always easy to quantify. Those who seem to give little may actually be offering more than those whose gifts appear substantial.

Ultimately, only God can fully understand the depth of our generosity, as he alone knows what we are truly capable of giving. Our human judgments are often based on outward appearances, but God sees far deeper, looking into the intentions of the heart. The widow may not have stood out to the onlookers in the temple, yet she made a profound impression on Jesus, who went on to highlight her example for others to see and learn from.

Our painting by John Everett Millais, one of the founders of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, portrays The Widow's Mite. In this mature work, Millais departs from the highly detailed, vibrant style of his early years in favour of a more subtly, loosely painted approach. Rather than depicting the widow as destitute, he imbues her with a sense of dignity and quiet confidence. She is assured in her actions, clearly convinced that her humble offering of two coins is a worthwhile and meaningful gesture. Interestingly, the coin and the alms box are almost imperceptible. Instead, Millais draws our focus to the widow's serene expression. Her offering seems almost trivial beside the large hatbox she carries in her other arm. In the 19th century, hats were essential elements of a woman's wardrobe, and the inclusion of the hatbox lends her an air of refinement. While she may be poor, Millais portrays her with profound dignity and respect, elevating her humble gesture into an act of true generosity.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/luke-21-1-4-2024/