Posted by The WORD in other words (2009) by Fr Ed Fugoso SVD – Divine Word Seminary of Tagaytay
Ash Wednesday
The authentic expression of Christian faith, such as almsgiving, prayer and fasting would surely find its rightful place in situations of pain and suffering.
I remember several years ago, I expressed in kind words my admiration and appreciation to a diocesan priest of Lipa for his efforts in collecting and sending truckloads of food and clothing to the flood victims of Lucena and Quezon. I said, “Ang galing mo Father!” (You’re very good, Father!) to which he replied jokingly, Naku, meron na sana akong gantimpala, nawala pa!” (I could have my reward, now it’s lost!)
Today’s Gospel guarantees that anyone who works for the eradication of unjust social structures, for poverty alleviation and healing, publicly or privately, in big or small scale, without any desire and intention to be recognized, praised and admired, will be rewarded in heaven.
The true spirit of living our Christian faith which may be expressed through almsgiving, prayer and fasting have to be performed without any desire for public adulation. It is supposed to be hidden from eyes of people.
Reflect: Have I involved myself recently in serious social actions without any personal hidden agenda? Am I among those labeled anonymous who regularly and generously donate to victims of either natural or man-made calamities? Do the spirit of joy and cheerfulness characterize my generosity? In what way is my Christian spirituality different from those of the Scribes and Pharisees?
