Daily Gospel Reflection for June 21, 2023

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

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

This passage in scripture, without broader context, may fall hard as a harsh admonishment rather than an exhortation for proper intention and focus as disciples. For earlier in Matthew, Jesus urges all that,

“. . . your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:16

One glance at the saints, and we see that their actions did not fail to draw attention or recognition, but their purpose was to give glory to God rather than to glorify themselves. Likewise, our desire should be to further our relationship with the Father rather than to empower our positions here on earth. It is all about doing the right things for the right reason.

Amid the division between body and spirit that the world teaches, our faith embraces the inherent connection. From the Catholic calisthenics of standing and kneeling, to the smells of incense, and the experience of Communion, we are invited to physically encounter Christ. So too, fasting and prayer can help align our will and desires to God’s will and His desires for us. And, when we enter into this encounter fully, there is always the opportunity for transformation.

What is the reward? It isn’t spelled out, but perhaps that, too, is intentional. For, if the work is rooted in our love for the Father, the reward lies in doing the good work itself. Our love for God is to be so great that out of our desire to love God flows the work we do, and that in itself calls forth more love. This life lived in, out of, and for the love of God is our purpose and the true source of all our happiness. It is not meant to be hidden, but shared all for the greater glory of God.

Ponder:

Am I doing work, albeit good work, for the glory of God or the recognition of others? Is my fasting and penance merely a motion I go through when it is required, or do I enter in expecting a transformation?

Pray:

Lord, you call us daily to seek You - Your love, Your will, and Your purpose for our lives and that of the world around us. When our lives lose focus, help us remember that we live not for ourselves but out of love for You.

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Amid the division between body and spirit that the world teaches, our faith embraces the inherent connection . . . to physically encounter Christ. #DailyGospel

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