Our scripture this morning is Matthew 6:1-4.
“Watch out! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give to someone in need, don’t do as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone in need, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.”
We should be concerned about helping one another and doing good. However, we are not to be concerned about getting credit for our actions, the credit goes to God who has enabled us to give. If we want to be recognized for our good deeds we are not giving in the spirit that God intends.
Jesus taught that our good work and the gifts we give must be between us and the Lord. The reason we do these things must be in thanks for His love for us and to share that love with others. It must not be to draw attention to ourselves.
We are called to share our spiritual and material blessings with those in need without thinking about what we may receive in return. We give back to God by caring for each other. Our reward is our relationship with Him and the promise of eternal life.
Gracious God, we are thankful for Your love poured out to us through creation itself and the blessing of our savior, Jesus Christ. Help us to go in faith, sharing what we have been given. Amen.