"But when you pray, go to your inner room,
close the door, and pray to your Father in secret.
And your Father who sees in secret will repay you."
(Matthew 6:6)
The ultimate goal of our spiritual disciplines should be to draw closer to God, not to impress others. Jesus remind us to prioritize a genuine relationship with God over outward appearances and practice our faith humbly, without seeking attention or praise from others. We are called to perform acts of charity, prayer, and fasting with a sincere heart, seeking God’s glory rather than human approval. Let us focus on God alone.
1 Jesus said to his disciples: “Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. 2 When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. 3 But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, 4 so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you. 5 “When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. 6 But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you. 16 “When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you.” (Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18)
In quiet corners, where no eyes can see, We seek Your face, Lord, in humility. Not for the gaze of man, but for Your eyes, Our spirits reach for You, beyond the skies. Disciplines of faith, not for show or fame, But to draw nearer to Your holy name. In prayer, in fasting, and in charity, We seek not praise, but Your clarity. Jesus reminds us, with a gentle call, To love our God, and give to Him our all. Not in loud fanfare or with boastful pride, But in the secret place where You abide.Let our hearts be pure, our intentions true, Seeking only Your approval in all we do. For in the end, it’s Your voice we long to hear, “Well done, faithful servant,” drawing near.
Lord Jesus, guide us in our spiritual quest, To seek the Father’s heart and know what’s best. Not to impress others with outward show, But to draw closer to God, and in His love grow. Help us prioritize a genuine bond, With our Creator, of whom we are fond. May our faith be practiced with humble hearts, And in our devotion, Your grace imparts. In acts of charity, prayer, and fast, May our intentions be pure and steadfast. Seeking not the applause of human hands, But the glory of God, which forever stands. Let us focus solely on You, dear Lord, And in every action, be in one accord. For the ultimate goal of our discipline, Is to be closer to You, free from sin. Amen.
Actions demonstrate the power of our faith. We are often tested and prepared for greater responsibilities. It is important to be led by the Spirit of God in our lives. Miraculous events give us hope in God’s power and His divine plan. Let us be faithful, hopeful, and obedient to God’s guidance as we serve Him and others keeping to mind the value of mentorship.
1 When the Lord was about to take Elijah up to heaven in a whirlwind, he and Elisha were on their way from Gilgal. 6 Elijah said to Elisha, “Please stay here; the Lord has sent me on to the Jordan.” “As the Lord lives, and as you yourself live, I will not leave you,” Elisha replied. And so the two went on together. 7 Fifty of the guild prophets followed, and when the two stopped at the Jordan, stood facing them at a distance. 8 Elijah took his mantle, rolled it up and struck the water, which divided, and both crossed over on dry ground. 9 When they had crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, “Ask for whatever I may do for you, before I am taken from you.” Elisha answered, “May I receive a double portion of your spirit.” 10 “You have asked something that is not easy,” Elijah replied. “Still, if you see me taken up from you, your wish will be granted; otherwise not.” 11 As they walked on conversing, a flaming chariot and flaming horses came between them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. 12 When Elisha saw it happen he cried out, “My father! my father! Israel’s chariots and drivers!” But when he could no longer see him, Elisha gripped his own garment and tore it in two. 13 Then he picked up Elijah’s mantle which had fallen from him, and went back and stood at the bank of the Jordan. 14 Wielding the mantle which had fallen from Elijah, Elisha struck the water in his turn and said, “Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?” When Elisha struck the water, it divided and he crossed over. (2 Kings 2:1, 6-14)
In faith’s firm grasp, we find our strength, As trials test our soul’s extent. Prepared for tasks of greater length, By Spirit’s lead, we’re heaven-sent. Miracles spark hope’s bright flame, God’s power in our lives proclaimed. His plan divine, beyond all fame, In awe, His mighty works are named. Faithful in service, hope we hold, Obedient to His voice so bold. In mentorship, truths unfold, Guiding the next, as foretold. Let’s serve with hearts both pure and true, To God’s own guidance ever due.
Heavenly Father, we come before You recognizing the power of our actions to demonstrate the depth of our faith. In times of testing, grant us the strength to endure and grow, preparing us for the responsibilities You have set before us. Lead us by Your Spirit, O God, that we may walk in Your ways and reflect Your love in all we do. May the miraculous events in our lives be a testament to Your mighty power and divine plan, filling us with enduring hope. Help us to remain faithful, hopeful, and obedient to Your guidance as we serve You and those around us. Teach us the value of mentorship, that we may guide others as You have guided us. In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.
God’s lovingkindness shields us from harm. We should have complete reliance on God’s protection and provision, even when faced with danger or during trials. Let us be strong, take heart, and hope in the Lord, supporting one another in faith. It is important to maintain our faith during challenging times, trusting in God’s plan and encouraging others to do the same.
20 How great is the goodness, O Lord, which you have in store for those who fear you, and which, toward those who take refuge in you, you show in the sight of the children of men. (R) 21 You hide them in the shelter of your presence from the plottings of men; you screen them within your abode from the strife of tongues. (R) 24 Love the Lord, all you his faithful ones! The Lord keeps those who are constant, but more than requites those who act proudly. (Psalm 31:20, 21, 24)
In the shadow of Your wings, we find reprieve, From the storms of life, Your love, we receive. With every trial that tests our faith’s resolve, In Your lovingkindness, our fears dissolve. Strong and courageous, in You, we stand, Holding onto the promise of Your command. Through danger’s valley or tempest’s roar, Your protection shields us, forevermore. Let hearts take courage, in hope, unite, Supporting each other through darkest night. Our faith unwavering, in trials, we trust, For Your plans are perfect, righteous and just. Encourage one another, as we walk this path, Trusting in Your provision, and never Your wrath. For in every challenge, Your grace is our song, With complete reliance on You, we grow strong.
Heavenly Father, Your lovingkindness is our shield, In every danger, to Your protection, we yield. We place our complete reliance on Your care, Knowing in trials, Your provision is always there. Grant us strength to stand firm in our faith, And take heart in the hope Your love saith. May we support one another in Your grace, As we seek to see the light of Your face. In challenging times, help us to maintain, A trust in Your plan, free from worldly strain. Encourage our hearts to uplift each other, As brothers and sisters, caring for one another. We thank You for Your promises so true, In Jesus’ name, we pray this unto You. Amen.'
Pericope:
Gospel
II: The Proclamation of the Kingdom
TEACHING ABOUT ALMSGIVING / ABOUT PRAYER / ABOUT FASTING
Matthew 6:01-04/05-08/16-18
First Reading
IV. The Kingdoms of Israel and Judah
ELISHA SUCCEEDS ELIJAH
2 Kings 2:9-18
Responsorial Psalm
First Book of Psalms 1-41
PRAYER IN DISTRESS AND THANKSGIVING FOR ESCAPE
Psalm 31:1-24
Related Blogs:
https://on-linewithgod.blogspot.com/2024/06/pray-in-secret.html
https://allidesireinlife.blogspot.com/2024/06/your-wish-will-be-granted.html
https://erosandagape-allbecauseoflove.blogspot.com/2024/06/love-lord.html
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
