Do not be like the hypocrites

First Reading: Psalm: Gospel:

2 Kings 2:1, 6-14 Psalm 31:20-21, 24 Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

Matthew 6:5  "And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.

Do not be like the hypocrites.  Well, who are the hypocrites?  They are people in the church. They are people of faith.  They are you and me.  We need to constantly guard against the trap of pride.  We need to never take credit for what we have and what we do except for our own sin.  Our faith should be seen though good works, not through some human definition of devotional living.  That is bible studies, participating in all kinds of ministries, being on councils and elder boards.  These things are noble and we should want to serve in these and many other ways.  But it should come as news to people when they find out you are involved in this or that, but it should not be a surprise. While they may not know what you are doing, they should not be surprised that you would do it.  Your character should be clearly evident to them without making the specific deeds that you do known.

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to do good for others and to serve you willingly and honorably while not getting caught up by the temptation of pride.  Help me to humbly give you thanks for every gift that I have and to never presume your grace beyond the faith that you have given me. 

Amen