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Don't parade good deeds


Gospel
Matthew 6:1-6,16-18
Your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Be careful not to parade your good deeds before men to attract their notice; by doing this you will lose all reward from your Father in heaven. So when you give alms, do not have it trumpeted before you; this is what the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win men’s admiration. I tell you solemnly, they have had their reward. But when you give alms, your left hand must not know what your right is doing; your almsgiving must be secret, and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.
    ‘And when you pray, do not imitate the hypocrites: they love to say their prayers standing up in the synagogues and at the street corners for people to see them; I tell you solemnly, they have had their reward. But when you pray, go to your private room and, when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in that secret place, and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.
    ‘When you fast do not put on a gloomy look as the hypocrites do: they pull long faces to let men know they are fasting. I tell you solemnly, they have had their reward. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that no one will know you are fasting except your Father who sees all that is done in secret; and your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you.’

Certainly! Here is a short reflection, a question for personal reflection, and a prayer based on Matthew 6:1-6,16-18:

**Reflection:**  
In this passage, Jesus reminds us that genuine acts of goodness—such as giving, praying, and fasting—are not about seeking human approval or recognition. Instead, they are sacred acts meant to be done sincerely, with our hearts focused on God rather than on appearances. When we perform these acts in secret, we acknowledge that our true reward comes from God alone, who sees what is done in hidden places. This calls us to examine our motives: Are we engaging in acts of kindness for the praise of others, or out of love for God? True humility and integrity lie in doing what is right quietly, trusting that God's reward is enough.

**Question for Reflection:**  
How can I ensure that my acts of faith and charity are motivated by love for God rather than a desire for recognition?

**Short Prayer:**  
Heavenly Father, thank You for seeing what is done in secret and for your promise to reward us. Help me to perform my acts of kindness, prayer, and fasting with sincerity and humility, seeking only Your approval. Teach me to trust in Your love and grace, and to find my joy in serving You quietly and faithfully. May my actions reflect my genuine love for You, and may I always remember that You see what is done in the hidden places of my heart. Amen.

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