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Read: Matthew 6:1-17
Listen: Matthew 6

When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. Matthew 6:16

In ancient Greek and Roman theater, hypocrites wear elaborate masks to transform into different characters, hiding their true identities behind carefully crafted facades. Theater audiences know the performance isn’t real. Jesus uses the term hypocrites to expose the religious performances happening in everyday life. People put on a mask of prayer or fasting to present themselves as righteous and holy. They put on a mask of generosity, but it’s all just a show. Jesus goes after their hearts. God cares about who they are at their core. He doesn’t want just their outward action. He desires their heart and whole lives.

It’s human nature to want to be noticed. We all have a God-given desire to be known, seen and loved. The problem arises when we pursue that longing in ways that are separate from God. Social media poses a common temptation for us today. We can curate an online persona, creating a version of ourselves that isn’t real. We put on masks for all to see and approve. Jesus calls us to something deeper. He challenges us first to check our hearts and focus on our vertical relationship with the Father before engaging in our horizontal relationships with others.

TODAY: Before entering conversations, meetings or posting anything online today, start with your vertical relationship with God. Pray a simple prayer inviting your heavenly Father to be part of every activity. Something like: “Father, thank you for seeing and loving me. Help me to live for your glory alone in this activity. Amen.”