The Widows’ Tribulations

On a superficial level, it is easy for us just to think of the financial side when we read or hear James’ peculiar statements about caring for orphans and widows in their tribulations, as if they had no other tribulations.

When the prophets in the old covenant spoke about the Messiah who was to come and restore all things, and they were to give examples of it, they used this specific example of caring for widows. In other words, one of the greatest things about Christianity is just this: caring for widows and orphans in their tribulations.

The fact that the prophets used this example when they related that everything had been restored tells us to draw the conclusion that this must be particularly important, that there must be a very great need for it.

James is therefore in complete agreement with the prophets and with the Spirit of truth when he virtually guarantees that this part of worshiping God is pure and undefiled. Jas. 1:27.

The widow’s main tribulation is quite simply the fact that she has lost her husband as the man of the house. Consequently, she has lost him as a provider for herself and for her children. And worst of all can be the fact that she has lost her main support when it concerns raising her children and their salvation, when it concerns all the cares and labor, all the pain and troubles and vexation and all the heavy burdens that can arise with respect to enduring and bearing with the children when they begin to grow up and have strong inclinations to go their own ways. Then parents can have their hands full, suffering and bearing together everything that might happen.

How unspeakably great the tribulation must be when the weaker vessel has to bear all this alone!

Even if she were very well taken care of financially, it would still be ridiculous to say that she did not experience tribulations.

As the final point, we can mention financial troubles, if that should be the case, such as poverty and debt, the painful and troublesome pressure of debt.

Ignatius certainly had the right understanding of the widows’ tribulations. He admonishes Polycarp to be the one who, after God, looks after the widows. That was a strong admonition!

Blessed is everyone who has some insight into this matter as long as he acts accordingly. God help all of us!