JP 33: SECRET SERVICE

In the summer of 2020, the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami received a $126 million donation to expand cancer treatment and research activities.  One might expect that, with such a large gift, that a building would be named after the donor.  But that's not what happened at all.  This real-life example of generosity reflects the heart of Jesus as he guides us to…

Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.  “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (Matthew 6:1–4).

Motive Matters

When we give to people in need, Jesus says to examine our motive.  Do we serve to gain their approval or applause?  Do we give to attract people to our cause?  If so, Jesus says that the Father withholds his reward because we valued the approval of men more than His.

Does this mean that we should look for ways to conceal good deeds?  No, because Jesus wants our motive to flow from our love for the Father and the dear people he has placed around us.  Sometimes, doing good deeds gets noticed and that is okay.

Jesus clarifies the point here,

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16).

When Not If

Notice how Jesus says, "when you give".  Giving to the needy is not an obligation but a privilege and Jesus expects that his disciples share with those in need.  However, giving as a way to advertise piety results in the forfeit of eternal rewards and present grace.  

Instead of growing our love and compassion through hidden acts of service, giving for personal gain uses those in need as a marketing prop.  Conversely, giving in secret acknowledges trust in the Father and brings all the glory to Him.  And this opens the door to your heavenly reward.

Miami University’s generous benefactor chose to remain anonymous, known only by close family members and the cancer center’s director.  There will be no building named in honor of the donor.  Only the reward of selfless love here on earth and the unsurpassed value of eternal reward in heaven.

We may not have $126 million to give, but we can give and serve those around us in ways that leave open the door to eternal reward and bring glory of our King.

Prayer: Jesus, thank you for the blessings you allow me to steward.  Teach me to give in ways that test my faith in you and with motives that honor your selfless sacrifice for me on the cross.  Cause me to elevate the needs of others before my own and trust you to supply my every need.  Amen

Secret Service: The Unexpected Door To Eternal Rewards

1. Motive Matters

Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. Matthew 6:1

2. When Not If

Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:6–8).

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Photo by Kristina Flour on Unsplash