In today’s gospel reading, Jesus is concerned with the tendency of religious people to do the right thing for the wrong reason. Almsgiving, Prayer and Fasting were important Jewish practices, which Jesus values. However, he warns against doing them for the wrong reason, in order to attract the notice of others, thereby receiving recognition and honour for oneself.
Friends, three times the Gospel text refers to the “Father who sees in secret.” As Christians and believers we live our lives in conscious awareness of the ever dwelling presence of God. We are not to see this God who sees in secret as one who spies or monitors, No! We are to see God as Emmanuel (God-with-us), He has promised to be with us till the end of time. We should be aware that our Alms giving, Fasting and Prayers are our loving response to God’s love for us through Jesus.
Dear friends, in all we do or say, let our focus be on God who is ever present with us. Let your intentions be purified, that you may receive the rewards of your good deeds.
Peace
