Many days, as I write out this initial reflection portion, I think to myself, “I really should just let this passage speak for itself. Why do I need to say anything?”
This is one of those days.
What is practicing your religion…? Would that include spending lots of money to create elaborate worship experiences in public? …to draw attention?
When I give to a charitable cause, and I’m a Christian, I should always check the box that says, “Keep donation anonymous,” right?
Jesus will have much more to say about authentic religion.
Matthew 6:1-4
“Be careful that you don’t practice your religion in front of people to draw their attention. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.
“Whenever you give to the poor, don’t blow your trumpet as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets so that they may get praise from people. I assure you, that’s the only reward they’ll get. But when you give to the poor, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing so that you may give to the poor in secret. Your Father who sees what you do in secret will reward you.
Prayer
God,
Thank you for Sundays. Thank you for the call to gather together. Bless you for the responsibility and privilege of being a part of something together with others. Help us to do better at it.
I saw a Facebook friend post something about going to the bar as her church now because no one there judges her.
God, make us into churches where people can feel that they don’t need to leave because they are judged.
By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.