When studying Matthews 6, I am reminded that good deeds should be done in secret for the Lord rather than before men for the honor and applaud. Matthew 6:1 "Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven.” The passage continues to apply it to 1) giving to the poor, 2) praying, and 3) fasting. There are some unique contrasts between hypocrites and followers of Christ. Hypocrites do it for show to be adored and admired. Believers do it in secret and without the self-consciousness of “doing good.” Repeatedly the passage states that “our Father in secret” and “our Father who sees in secret” rewards these acts done in secret.
There are many quiet helpers around us we may not have usually noticed and showed appreciation. But sometimes we can them very near. Last week we heard the sad news about the volunteer who died in a car accident while delivering winter clothes to children in 玉樹. We become aware of his good deeds only in his death. There are many silent helpers around us.
Today I praise God for some of these people I know – a friend who went on a short term medical mission in Haiti, a person who is active in a fellowship for individuals with developmental disabilities… I hope I will notice more quiet helpers and learn from them.
Lord, I pray that I won’t be too self conscious about being a helper. Hopefully it becomes natural for me to help joyfully. There are many inspiring role models around us, they help others because they Love God with all their heart, mind and soul and love their neighbor as themselves.
yes, sometime somehow, it is a temptation to be too conscious of one's self good deed with intention to be praised by other.....
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