Matthew 6:2-4 NRSVue
2“So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. 3But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4so that your alms may be done in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.,
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Some thoughts on this scripture
Reflection
Secrecy and discretion have fallen on hard times: suspicion is expressed both of spying governments and of those who avoid social media. Having nothing to hide seems not enough: it sometimes seems necessary to publish everything. Jesus draws attention to another aspect of life, the need for a quiet, reflective and responsible living. I think of the unassuming life to which Jesus calls me and ask God’s help to let go of any need to be thought well of, and ask God’s help that I might think the best of others.