Today’s readings are worth their weight in gold. They contain some golden rules which we are called to follow and which can transform our lives.
The Psalmist says – ‘Blessed the man who fears the Lord.’ I see it this way. Blessed is the man or woman who honours the Lord. When we honour the Lord, do as He commands and live those parts of our life in secrecy, God begins to do a new thing.
This truth is a life changer. The one who sows meagerly will reap meagerly. It is about sowing in the key aspects of life, Love, money, wealth, abilities, time, faith and prayer. When we sow meagerly with regard to times of prayer, we lack in faith, wisdom and a miraculous life. When we lack in giving love we feel so bitter and never seem to get better. But for each person, there is a critical area where they are called to sow. However, the most challenging areas are with regard to money, love and time. Today take time to discover your critical area. God loves a cheerful giver. Many people are looking for the ideal place to invest a sizable chunk of their savings that promises high returns. We cheerfully agree to invest in a venture where we are rock solid sure that the returns will be high. But just imagine if the Lord speaks to us and asks us to put the ‘same amount’ in a struggling old age home. Will we respond with the same enthusiasm or will we walk away dejected, like the rich young man.
We are cautioned to refrain from making a show of our good deeds. It is very hard to follow. We somehow bring out our goodness through a carefully crafted testimony of how our generosity resulted in a miracle. But today the Lord is telling us in black and white – your Father sees beyond appearances – And your Father who sees what is kept secret, will reward you. We are invited to pray in secret and keep our prayer secret. When you pray, go into your room, shut the door, and pray to your Father who is with you in secret and your Father who sees what is kept secret will reward you. You will be rewarded for the things you kept secret not for what you broadcasted. Let’s start afresh! Shhhh…
Prayer: Abba Father, I fail so badly in keeping secrets. I blurt out about my accomplishments and generosity and lose out. Help me to change, Amen
