“But when you pray, go to your inner room,
Matthew 6:6
close the door, and pray to your Father in secret.”
Reflection
Jesus cautions his disciples to not perform righteous deeds so that others may see them, or give alms publicly to win praise, or pray like the hypocrites on street corners. Everything that is done in secret the Father sees and will repay you for.
Today we begin the season of Lent. This is not only a day of fasting, but of beginning to spiritually prepare ourselves for Easter. Whether you give something up for Lent or decide to add something to your day instead, consider not telling those around you or asking what they are doing.
Jesus reminds us that we should not shout to the rooftops when we pray or give alms or fast. When we do religious things for appearance’s sake, we aren’t truly doing them for Jesus’ sake. We are often tempted to ask people what they are giving up for Lent or let them know what we are doing, but perhaps keeping our Lenten penance a secret will yield greater fruit. Let us conduct ourselves worthily for Christ as we begin this blessed season.
Saint of the Day
St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara: 1805 – 1871
| “The children who have love of God and fear of God will love and respect their parents.” St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara |
The Healing Word 