Daily Gospel Reflection for June 16, 2021

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Connie Beckman

Today's Gospel: Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

“But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.”

Jesus is teaching us valuable lessons in humility. This is a tough teaching to put into practice daily. As humans, we all like to get the approval and praise of others for doing a good job, a good deed or bragging about how much we pray and fast. It’s good to be praised and to be encouraged in our journey as Christians.

But I think what Jesus is saying to me, ‘If you are doing these good deeds to get recognized so that others will see how good you are, then you are in danger of following into the sin of pride.’ As Padre Pio states: “As gifts increase in you, let your humility grow, for you must consider that everything is given to you on loan.”

It is good to pray in public and at Mass as a community of believers. But I also need to take some time to go before my Eucharistic Lord and King and be silent so as He can speak to my weary, burdened heart. “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.”

When I take the time to come into the silence before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, I come away refreshed and renewed. My anxiety and worries become lighter. I can more easily surrender my tight hold on the things I want to control and place them in the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Ponder:

Can you carve out a little time today to go before the Blessed Sacrament?

Pray:

Lord Jesus, grant me a humble heart that I might serve you today. Send me those who need a touch of Your love through a smile, hug or a listening heart. 

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When I take the time to come into the silence before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, I come away refreshed and renewed. #dailygospel

Copyright 2021 Connie Beckman

Connie Beckman resides in Helena, Montana, with her husband and is a member of Saint Cyril & Methodious Parish. Her desire as a writer is to encourage Catholic spiritual growth by sharing the truths of the faith through the written word addressing a variety of subjects. Connie shares her joy and love of God at her website www.conniescatholiccorner.com.