Poverty

According to Wikipedia Poverty is the deprivation of food, shelter, money and clothing that occurs when people cannot satisfy their basic needs. Poverty can be understood simply as a lack of money, or more broadly in terms of barriers to everyday life. Absolute poverty or destitution refers to the state of severe deprivation of basic human needs. Because a person lives in poverty - does not mean that they have absolutely nothing - rather they have a greatly diminished supply of basic needs. As poor as they may be - there are people who do manage to live and exist in the face of poverty. In this day and age - many people who think they are living in poverty are actually not. These may feel like they are because they cannot afford extras in life which many others can afford - cell phones - cable television - designer labels - high end items.  They may be poor compared to their neighbors and friends - but they are not necessarily impoverished. To possess anything means to not be in poverty

.In Mark 12:44 Jesus points out to His disciples that the poor widow gave from her poverty - not from her treasure. He compared her temple offering to others who gave large amounts - but could well afford to. You can consider two different concepts - the first and most obvious is about sharing your money with others - no matter how little you have. The second - and less obvious - is the concept of unburdening yourself of earthly possessions - money - property - material things. In disposing of these material things - you free yourself from the burden of managing them. You are no longer possessed by that which you possess - and being freed - you are now open to new experiences and options. When you become free - you are now open to God and what He wants you to do with your life. In your new found poverty - you have gained the world and all that God intends for you.

Deacon Dale