Thursday, 20th Week of Ordinary Time

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18
The Daily Office

An astute reader might notice what seems to be a contradiction in today’s reading.  The emphasis in today’s reading on Matthew is on the need to not seek publicity, or public adulation, for good works.  But did not Jesus just say, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven”? (Matt. 5:16)

So, how do I “let this little light of mine shine,” if the acts of prayer and charity that would shine the brightest should be done in such dark secrecy?  Sorry to throw the Greek around, but Greek grammar sometimes has a clarity that English doesn’t.  If I say, for instance, “you should do this,” am I referring to just one person, or to more than one?  Both would be correct.  Greek, however, attaches different endings to verbs depending on the tense.

When Jesus says, “Let your light shine,” it is clear from the Greek that the “your” Jesus is referring to is plural.  In chapter 6, it is equally clear that the “you” to whom Jesus is referring to is singular.  No one should seek personal glory in their life of prayer and giving.  What most reveals God in this world is not an individual who is better than anyone else.  What most reveals God in this world is a community that does not seek personal glory, personal reward or personal vindication, but by its unity witnesses to God.

Church is not the place for personal agendas.  The agenda is God’s.  Are we a community willing to set aside personal agendas for the good of all?