That said, God is very interested in giving, praying and fasting. As Jesus talks, he contrasts recognition from people with recognition from God. He suggests that the latter is more important than the former.

I’ve heard people wonder after reading this passage whether God would suddenly ignore them if someone found out about their giving. I know of people who are concerned about praying in public, who are afraid of praying so other people hear because of their fear of pride.

But that’s because we focus on the ‘don’t’ part of these sentences and the potential of punishment. What if Jesus isn’t talking about avoiding pride? What if Jesus’ greatest concern isn’t with avoiding people knowing.

What if his biggest interest is encouraging a conspiratorial relationship with the Father?

You know the feeling when you work with someone else to plan a wonderful surprise? A surprise where some third person will get what they’ve always wanted? A surprise where that third person must never know how this happened, but that’s okay because you and your co-conspirator can celebrate together?

That’s what Jesus is inviting, that kind of relationship with the Father. A routine of working together.

Work with the Father in your giving. The people you are helping? Do your best to not let them know. Do your best to not let the press know, to not brag about it, even quietly to a few close friends. In fact, Jesus says, don’t even let your hands talk to each other. But know that the Father knows. Know that you can share a laugh, a knowing wink, with Him.

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From Learning a new routine. Reading the Sermon on the Mount a little bit at a time