MT 6:1-6, 16-18
In this passage Jesus emphasizes being humble when performing righteous deeds. He talks about the three works of piety, Alms, Prayer and Fasting. First He speaks about giving Alms. Alms is giving to others in a material way or in action. Jesus tells us that we shouldn’t do things to get the attention and praise from others, if we do that we will get no praise from God. He says “When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to when the praise of others.” He tells his disciples to do alms-giving in secret so that only God the father will see you and he will repay you.
Jesus says “Do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them.” He stresses praying in a room with the door closed, so it is only you and God. Then God who hears your prayers in secret will repay you. Fasting, is the practice of abstaining from food and drink. Jesus says when you are fasting take care of your appearance so no one but god knows you are fasting. Some men neglect their appearance to show everyone they are fasting. Even though you are hidden and no one knows that you are fasting, you will receive your reward from God, who is also hidden. In this Gospel Jesus stresses the intimacy with God of being humble when performing righteous deeds. God does not want you to do these things for praise from other people. The only praise you shall be seeking is praise from God your father.