Today’s readings round out a section (beginning in 6:1) in which Jesus addressed three of the most basic acts of worship in first-century Judaism (i.e., giving to the needy, prayer to God, and fasting). The one theme that I see connecting across all of these acts is the idea of secrecy. This is worthy of some reflection.
Many of us have grown up in churches which urged us not to be secretive about these things, but to do them openly…publicly…perhaps, even a bit belligerently. As church bodies many of us put up signs on our buildings and buses. When we hand out food at the holidays, we make sure to include slips of paper advertising for our church, “just so these people will know where it comes from.” Is it really important that they know that? If so, how does that jive with Jesus’ words here in Matthew?
I certainly agree that we should not be ashamed of Christ. Yet, is there not quite a bit of difference between being unashamed, and simply seeking to shove your confession in the face of others? Since when has standing for Jesus necessarily obligated us to disregard both the direct command of Christ and the example of the One who “[did] not shout or raise His voice in public” (Is. 42:2)?
I propose that we all engage in a little spiritual experiment this week. Let’s do as much giving, fasting, and praying as we can for the next seven days…but let us do so in secret. Let’s simply sit back and see what the result is. After a week, if you should choose to break your public silence, I invite you to share your experience with the rest of us so we may grow in our faith.
-- Justin
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