by Dan Miller, SAFL Program Director & Milwaukee, WI Program Director
Verse(s): “Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.'” — Matthew 6:1-4
Reflection: Here, Jesus gives us great advice on how to properly glorify God. Have you ever wondered why He singles out prayer, fasting and almsgiving to the Disciples? Perhaps because the Jews considered these three practices the pillars of a pious life. Like a hot knife through butter, Jesus cuts to the chase: Do we pray, fast and give alms to look good to others or to give glory to God?
This is always a fun Gospel reading for someone who spends a lot of time on the public sidewalk in prayer at abortion facilities! Occasionally, we get called on it from people passing by – or even by abortion-oriented clients. (The irony of someone quoting scripture as they walk in to abort their own child is always unbelievably rich, right? I suppose I could quote hundreds of bible passages to address their concern for my soul – but usually I wind up pleading for the life of the baby one last time. I don’t want to win any debates – just save souls!)
Jesus tell us here true piety has an attitude of awe, reverence, worship and obedience. Piety is also a gift – which the Holy Spirit works through — enabling us to devote our lives to God in our particular calling with a holy and burning desire to please Him in all things.
If you pray, fast and give alms in this way, there is a reward. He feels so strongly about it, that He promises to repay you THREE SEPARATE TIMES in this Gospel passage.
Call to Action: So, what are you waiting for? Get to your secret place and pray! Fast – and take good care of yourself! Joyfully give generously – and hide your left hand!