Sometimes we are tempted to toot our own horn, to point out what we have done for others, and to ask to be recognized for it. However, this is not what Jesus would do, it is not what he wants from us. He does not need grandstanders or woe-to-me complainers. Our prayers, alms, and fasting should be done with as little fanfare as possible. Sure some people might notice what we are doing and if we are asked we should tell them the truth (and not lie out of some sense of false humility), but we don't need to draw attention to ourselves with outward displays of piety. People should know we are Christians by our love, not by how loud we make ourselves.
Do we do the right thing even when no one is there to see it? Are we willing to do it even if people might misunderstand or persecute us for practicing our faith? What was the last righteous deed we performed and were we content with no one knowing about it or did we point it out to others?
O Lord, we want to do righteous deeds not in order for others to see, but because we love you and all your children.
Amen.
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