Gospel Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18
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. “When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you. “When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you may not appear to others to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you.”
The Mass Intention
Reflection
Almsgiving, prayer and fasting are three classical expressions of piety. Each has an important place in our relationship with God and each other. But they can be motivated by selfishness or generosity. Key to our choices is where our hearts are. Is my heart set on God alone? Do I sometimes set out to get praise and admiration?
We are asked to carry out almsgiving, prayer and fasting in secret. Yet we are helped by good example. Whatever is done with sincere love will last eternally. I ask for a heart that is free, that enables me to live with sincere love.
God Bless you all Deacon Martyn