Honor widows who are widows indeed; but if any widow has children or grandchildren, they must first learn to practice piety in regard to their own family and to make some return to their parents; for this is acceptable in the sight of God. Now she who is a widow indeed and who has been left alone, has fixed her hope on God and continues in entreaties and prayers night and day. But she who gives herself to wanton pleasure is dead even while she lives. 1 Timothy 5:3-6
In the church, we are to honor widows and in some cases, keep a list- presumably to help us remember each one. While the first responsibility lies with the family to nurture and care for a woman without a husband, the pastors can facilitate care from other members or enact direct care at times. When a woman meets the qualifications as a ‘widow indeed’, it becomes a great expression of God’s love and attentiveness for the church to respond in practical ways and with encouragement. Some of the requirements are fairly rigid, but good guidelines for Timothy and us today.
How is my church meeting the needs of widows? Is there a list?
God, as this day begins, I am grateful to be part of a church attentive to the needs of widows. Please continue to care, encourage and inspire them in their grief to a place of service within the church and their own family so that they know they have great value in your eyes and within the kingdom of God. I am grateful for the way people in our church do that very thing.
