False Spirituality - Week 6: Friday

Bible Passage

Matthew 6:1-4

“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”

Commentary

St. John Chrysostom

When Jesus warned, “Beware of practicing your piety before men,” he then added pointedly, “to be seen by them.” At first glance it seems as if the same thing were being repeated, but if you pay attention, you will note a careful distinction. Alms may be given in the presence of others primarily to be seen by them, or they may be given in the presence of others but not to be seen. He is not focusing simply on the outward act done but the inward intent.