The inspired writer when giving instruction that was to be handed down from generation to generation, and to influence the christian church through all time, did not forget the widow. Indeed she had a prominent place in his mind.
So much did he think of her that he could not define pure religion without expressing a duty which christians owe to her. And again in Acts vi, 1, we read, "And in those days when the number of the disciples was multiplied there arose a murmuring among the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration." This complaint of the Grecians was just, and we are glad to learn that after this murmuring the widows were provided for.
The spirit of christianity will not allow us to neglect this class of sufferers. Whatever may be her circumstances she demands sympathy.—She may not have children to cheer her lone way, but is left with strangers. Perhaps some of them lie in yonder grave-yard where she oft retires to weep. Others have been lost at sea, and this, to the mother, sacred privilege of visiting the grave "to weep there" is denied her. She cannot forget them. You may tell her to cheer up and put her trust in Jesus. That is a very sweet name to her but still she thinks of her children, and of that dear one who walked by her side and was the comfort of her heart. She had lost children before, but she had a husband to read the blessed word of the Lord and pray with her, but now she must come to the throne of grace alone. How lonely she feels!
She may have children around her now, some of them loving and obedient. O how they comfort her in her lone way? Others are hard hearted and disobedient, yet she loves them and must pray for them. She says, "O how much they need a father to direct them!" Her heart is sad. As she walks out to that little grove just after the sun has hidden his bright face below the western horizon, she thinks of the favorite air which he used to sing. She hums it over, but the former sweetness is gone. What a time is this to think of loved ones now at rest? The kind words, cheering sunny look, faithfulness around the family altar, favorite expressions and peculiarities all come back with freshness; but there has been a change.
That widow however comfortably she may be situated, feels that her attachments to earth have been broken. Here is a great work for christians, to visit the widow in her affliction, speak kind and cheering words to her, and if need be to administer unto her necessities.
But how much the widow has to be thankful for! Angels are interested in her welfare, and are ministering spirits sent forth to minister unto her if she is an heir of salvation. Saints are required to visit, and our heavenly Father will be the widow's God. If she is faithful and "stands up for Jesus," he will be that friend who sticketh closer than a husband and take her home to rest with himself at last. There friend will meet friend and the tomb will separate hearts no more. Brother, sister, be kind and faithful to that widowed mother, or Jesus will not say to you "well done." Speak softly to her for her heart is tender. Widowed mother, trust in Jesus. You may feel lonely in that little room but Jesus will be with you there .