"Which 'Radio Station' Do You Tune Into? W.I.F.M. or W.I.F.Y.?”
This Sunday’s readings remind us of a stark contrast in attitude: the scribes, who put on a show of faith for their own benefit, and the two widows, who live a life of humble service, thinking only of others and of God. We might put it this way: some tune into “W.I.F.M.”—“What’s in it for me?”—while others choose “W.I.F.Y.”—“What’s in it for you?”
In the Gospel, Jesus observes the scribes, who love to flaunt their devotion, basking in admiration and privilege. They wear long robes, accept greetings in the marketplace, and take places of honor at feasts. But Jesus doesn’t praise them. Instead, He calls out their self-centered motives. Despite their outward shows of piety, they exploit the vulnerable, praying long prayers as they take from those in need. In essence, they’re tuned in to their own station, W.I.F.M., focused on what they can gain for themselves.
Then, we encounter the widow at the temple, quietly putting two small coins into the collection. Her offering is modest, yet it’s everything she has. She gives not out of excess but out of sacrifice and trust, expecting nothing in return. In the first reading, too, we see another widow’s selfless act. She shares her last meal with the prophet Elijah, even though she and her son face starvation. These women are tuned into “W.I.F.Y.”—asking, “What can I do for you, Lord?” They model a faith that doesn’t calculate what’s convenient or safe, but trusts in God wholeheartedly.
So, which “station” do we tune into? It’s tempting to live in the mindset of W.I.F.M., where we may even use faith as a way to feel secure or to look good to others. But our calling as disciples is to tune into W.I.F.Y., where our focus shifts from self to service, and from taking to giving.
This choice is central to a life of faith. When we put God and others first, we experience true freedom and joy, even in sacrifice. Tuning into W.I.F.Y. calls us to imitate Christ, who “came not to be served, but to serve.”
This week, let’s ask ourselves: in our daily lives, our relationships, and our faith, which “station” do we listen to most? May the example of the widows inspire us to tune our hearts toward generous service, giving from our need rather than our excess, and living as true disciples who trust that God’s love and grace will sustain us.
Yours in Christ,
Deacon Darryl
