Sermon – Not the Praise of Men, but the Favor of God (Matthew 6:1-6:16-18) – June 17, 2026

In today's Gospel, Jesus gives us a very important spiritual lesson. He speaks of giving alms, praying, and fasting; but the real emphasis is not on the actions themselves, but on the intention with which we perform them.

Jesus says:

Be careful not to perform your good deeds in front of people just to show off.

God does not forbid doing good; rather, He warns against turning good deeds into a means of showing off and seeking praise. The problem is not that people see the good we do, but that we do good solely for the sake of being seen by others.

Jesus says:

When you want to pray, go into your room, close the door, and pray to your Father who is in secret.

The "room" here is not just a physical place. It is also the human heart. It is our inner world where we intimately connect with God. Because God looks at our hearts more than our words.

Saint John-Marie Vianney said: "Prayer is the soul's ascent to God."

True prayer is not offered so that others may see us as pious, but because we love God.

Doing good with love

Imagine a mother staying up all night by her sick child's bedside. No one sees her, no one applauds her; but God sees her.

Let's consider someone who secretly helps a poor family. No one knows, but God knows.

Consider someone who silently forgives an injustice done to them. People may not notice, but God sees it.

The world values appearances; God sees the hidden sacrifices born of love.

Saint Teresa of Calcutta once said: “We cannot all accomplish great things; but we can all do small things with great love.”

In the eyes of God, a small act of kindness done out of love is more valuable than a great deed done out of pride.

The danger of the desire to be liked.

Nowadays, people are encouraged to share and show off everything they do. Sometimes even helping others, praying, or making sacrifices can turn into a spectacle.

Jesus warns us against this danger, because the applause of people is short-lived, while the reward of God is eternal.

Saint Augustine said: “Pride turns angels into devils; humility turns men into angels.”

He who seeks the praise of people will receive his reward in this world. He who seeks the pleasure of God will attain eternal reward.

Fasting that transforms the heart

Jesus also speaks about fasting today. He wants us not to try to attract people's attention by looking sad and miserable when we fast.

True fasting is not just abstaining from food. It is also abstaining from evil, selfishness, gossip, anger, and resentment.

Saint Basil teaches the following:

True fasting is abstaining from evil.

After listening to this Gospel, we can ask ourselves these questions:

• Am I praying to meet with God, or is it just out of habit?

• Do I expect anything in return or appreciation when I do good deeds?

• Do I get disappointed when no one notices?

• Am I seeking the glory of God, or my own glory?

God sees what people do not see. He knows the tears shed in secret, the silent sacrifices, the heartfelt prayers, and the unconditional love.

Therefore, let us pray that we may perform our acts of charity, prayer, and fasting not to gain the approval of people, but to please our Father in heaven.

And may we one day deserve to hear these words from the Lord: “ Well done, my good and faithful servant! ”

May Mary, who became the Lord's servant by saying "yes" to God's plan, teach us to pray and do good hoping to please only God, not people.