Matthew 6:5-6 NRSVue

5“And whenever you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, so that they may be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. 6But whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.,

Some thoughts on this scripture

Reflection
Lord, when you teach how to pray, I listen hard. This is the first lesson: to pray privately, with no ostentation. God is closer than the ear to the lips: no need to shout or advertise. You read my heart, Lord, and when I pray I get a glimpse of it too.

Reflection
I take this time in the room of my heart, assured that God is with me. I draw strength from Jesus’ telling me that God sees what is in the secret of my heart. God sees and loves all my best intentions and desires, forgives my failings and yearns for my love.

Reflection
As I pray that I may receive the reward that God has in heart for me, I take care to consider if there are any blessings in the last few days that I may not have appreciated.

Reflection
I give thanks to God for this moment of prayer. I ask that I may grow in the love of God, serve others joyfully and be blessed myself.