Matthew 6:1-4
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
Today’s passage marks a turn from Jesus’ teaching about shalom relationships to his teaching on the personal motives that underlie certain behaviors.
Read Matthew 6:1-4 noticing the assumption Jesus makes that his disciples are already engaged in “acts of charity.”
In the Hebrew Scriptures of the Old Testament, God directed the people of Israel to care for the poor among them (Genesis 15:7-11), but the Hebrew word for generosity, or charity, indicates more than a simple act of kindness.
For the Israelites, generosity was an outward expression of righteousness or justice. It was more than just a kind gesture; it was an ethical obligation based on the knowledge that everything belongs to God and that God cares for all people.
In the economy of God’s Kingdom, those who have more share with those in need. This is the way of shalom.
Stop to examine your own attitude about money and possessions. Do you believe that everything you have belongs to God? Talk with Jesus about this.
Read Matthew 6:1-4 again as if Jesus were speaking directly to you.
Acts of generosity have a way of benefitting the giver as much as the receiver – and sometimes more so. But the benefit is not in the way others view us but rather in the way God blesses us. If we give so that people will think well of us, we’re missing the point and the real reward.
Think of a time when you gave a portion of your treasure, time, or talent to help someone in need. How did you experience a “reward” from God?
As you end this time of meditation, take a minute or two to get still and listen to Jesus. You might try saying the name of Jesus over and over until you feel centered and calm.
Could Jesus be inviting you to some kind of generous action?
What will you do about that?
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