Matthew 6:1-4 | “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
DAILY PRAYER REQUEST: Lord, help me become more generous.
DAILY THOUGHT: ALMSGIVING
When Jesus speaks about giving alms in our weekly Bible passage, the word sounds strange and old fashioned in our modern ears. Essentially what it means is giving to those who are poor. Learning how best to go about doing this can be very challenging. Often our giving to others can take away dignity from those on the receiving end, increase the distance between them and ourselves, and perpetuate unjust systems that should not be there in the first place. On the other hand, when we do not share what we have with those in practical need, their desperate situation may become even worse. We need much wisdom and insight if we are to take Jesus’ words about generously sharing seriously.
DAILY PRACTICE:
Pray the daily prayer request. Read the Bible passage for the week again, paying particular attention to Jesus’ words about almsgiving. Think about your experiences of generous sharing with those in need. Here are some reflection questions: How generous do you think you are? Would you like to grow in generous sharing? Has your sharing with others built healthy and mutual relationships between yourself and others or has it hindered such relationship? Share your reflections with the Lord and listen to what he may say to you.