Pondering Our Hearts Toward 2026
by Sue Martindale
“As Jesus looked up, He saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ‘Truly I tell you,’ He said, ‘this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.’” –Luke 21:1-4
Throughout our lives, we are asked to give of ourselves. As children, you likely were asked by your parents to set the table for dinner, pick up your bedroom, or clean the bathroom. As adults, we may have a family to care for and support; or perhaps our roles are reversed and we are now taking care of our elderly parents. We have a church home here at Peñasquitos Lutheran Church that not only ministers to its members, but also supports the needs of others locally and around the world.
How valuable to us were our “two coins” in 2025? Did we give enough words of encouragement to our children or friends going through difficult times? Did we pray enough to cover all those in our lives with their physical, mental, or spiritual needs? Did we reach out to a long-distance friend or family member to check in on them? Did we volunteer with one of PLC’s many missions or programs? Did we contribute financially to support our church, school, or other organization that really could use our financial support for their programming?
Could we have done more, but chose not?
Welcome to 2-0-2-6!
A Savior has been born! We celebrated His birth on Christmas last week. About 2026 years ago, Mary and Joseph welcomed the shepherds who came seeking the Christ Child because of the angelic hosts who visited them in the fields that night. Once she heard what the shepherds said about their miraculous encounter with the angels, “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19).
As we reflect on God’s gift of His Son for our salvation, ponder in your heart what that means to you in 2026. Where will you place your two coins—or more if you are able—in 2026? Ponder what the Lord has planned for you. Invite Him, through prayer, to shower you with blessings of time, talent, and treasure to share with your family, your church, your God.
Thank You, dear God, for sending Your Son Jesus Christ, my Savior, to take my sins as His own. Even through the tough times of physical or emotional pain, I knew You were with me, just as You were through the good times. I am so grateful for all You blessed me with in 2025. Now I ask for Your mercy and grace throughout 2026 that I can, in turn, be a blessing to others in whatever way You guide me to do so. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.