We are turning to ‘page two’ in the Sermon the Mount. Jesus shifts his focus to some common Jewish practices of devotion and worship: giving to the needy, prayer, and fasting. In all three situations, Jesus warns against playing the hypocrite and seeking human kudos. He again goes after the heart’s motivation and intent. We will spend some extra weeks unpacking the Lord’s Prayer.
Our text this week is Matthew 6:1-4. This chapter begins with a warning: Don’t be like the hypocrites (actors). Instead, practice righteousness (giving, prayer, fasting, etc) for an audience of One – GOD!
Its so tempting to speak and act in order to puff up our image or our character. Jesus assures us that God sees. In this teaching, Jesus whispers, “Be free of the need to be on stage. Let go of concern for status or the need to gain the approval or recognition of others… God sees.”
In what ways do we try and put on an image of something we are not? In what ways do we try to impress others, ‘take a look at me?’ The signs are everywhere. Jesus once again goes after the heart motivations and desires.
See you Sunday,
Pastor Mark
