Pray in Secret

Gospel

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

1 Jesus said to his disciples: “Take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father. 2 When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. 3 But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing, 4 so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you. 5 “When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. 6 But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you. 16 “When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward. 17 But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, 18 so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you.”

Introduction

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, where He addresses the heart of spiritual practices like giving, praying, and fasting. He emphasizes that acts of charity, prayer, and fasting should not be done for public recognition but should be performed with humility and a focus on God, who sees what is done in secret. This teaching encourages a sincere heart and a heavenward focus in our spiritual disciplines. He challenges believers to consider not just what they do, but why and how they do it.

Historical Background

In first-century Judea, religious life was highly visible, and acts of piety—such as almsgiving, prayer, and fasting—were often performed in public. The Pharisees and other religious leaders set examples, sometimes seeking recognition from others for their devotion. Jesus’ teaching came as a radical call to rethink these practices, emphasizing sincerity over showmanship.

Theological Context

Jesus warns against practicing righteousness “in front of others to be seen by them.” He highlights the danger of hypocrisy and encourages His followers to seek God’s approval rather than human praise. Theologically, this passage underscores the importance of inner integrity and authentic relationship with God, reminding us that spiritual disciplines are meant to draw us closer to Him, not to elevate ourselves in the eyes of others.

Learning Lessons:

The ultimate goal of our spiritual disciplines should be to draw closer to God, not to impress others. 

Jesus reminds us to prioritize a genuine relationship with God over outward appearances and practice our faith humbly, without seeking attention or praise from others. We are called to perform acts of charity, prayer, and fasting with a sincere heart, seeking God’s glory rather than human approval. 

Let us focus on God alone.

Reflection for the Day

Today, Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18 invites us to examine our motives in spiritual practice. Are we seeking God’s presence, or merely hoping to impress those around us? Jesus calls us to quiet, humble devotion—a prayer in secret, a fast unseen by others, a generosity that doesn’t seek applause. Let us strive for authenticity in our faith, remembering that God sees our hearts and rewards what is done in secret. May this passage inspire us to deepen our relationship with God, focusing on Him rather than the approval of the world.

Poem

In quiet corners, where no eyes can see, 

We seek Your face, Lord, in humility. 

Not for the gaze of man, but for Your eyes, 

Our spirits reach for You, beyond the skies.

Disciplines of faith, not for show or fame, 

But to draw nearer to Your holy name. 

In prayer, in fasting, and in charity, 

We seek not praise, but Your clarity.

Jesus reminds us, with a gentle call, 

To love our God, and give to Him our all. 

Not in loud fanfare or with boastful pride, 

But in the secret place where You abide.

Let our hearts be pure, our intentions true, 

Seeking only Your approval in all we do. 

For in the end, it’s Your voice we long to hear, 

“Well done, faithful servant,” drawing near.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, 

Guide us in our spiritual quest, to seek the Father’s heart and know what’s best. Not to impress others with outward show, but to draw closer to God, and in His love grow.

Help us prioritize a genuine bond, with our Creator, of whom we are fond. May our faith be practiced with humble hearts, and in our devotion, your grace imparts.

In acts of charity, prayer, and fast, may our intentions be pure and steadfast. Seeking not the applause of human hands, But the glory of God, which forever stands.

Let us focus solely on You, dear Lord, and in every action, be in one accord. For the ultimate goal of our discipline, is to be closer to You, free from sin. 

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Proclamation of the Kingdom

TEACHING ABOUT ALMSGIVING / ABOUT PRAYER / ABOUT FASTING

Matthew 6:01-04/05-08/16-18

Gospel Acclamation

Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him and we will come to him.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

June 18, 2025, 6:22 AM

March 05, 2025, 8:38 AM

June 19, 2024, 6:08 AM

Persistent in Prayer

And will not God vindicate his elect, 

who cry to him day and night? 

Will he delay long over them?

Luke 18:7

And He told them a parable, to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.

He said, "In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor regarded man; and there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, `Vindicate me against my adversary.'

For a while he refused; but afterward he said to himself, `Though I neither fear God nor regard man, yet because this widow bothers me, I will vindicate her, or she will wear me out by her continual coming.'"

And the Lord said, "Hear what the unrighteous judge says.

I tell you, He will vindicate them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of man comes, will He find faith on earth?" - Luke 18:1-8

Be Persistent in Prayer is a phrase that encourages Christians to pray continually and not give up. It is based on several biblical verses that teach the importance and power of prayer. Some of the reasons to be persistent in prayer are:

God rewards persistence: The Bible also teaches that God honors those who persevere in prayer and do not lose heart. He is pleased with our faith and trust in him, and he will reward us with joy and peace. Luke 18:1-8, Hebrews 11:6

God hears and answers prayer: The Bible promises that God listens to the prayers of his people and responds according to his will and timing. He is not deaf or indifferent to our requests, but he cares for us and wants to bless us. Psalm 34:15, 1 John 5:14-15

God shapes our character: The Bible shows that prayer is not only a way to ask God for things, but also a way to grow in our relationship with him. Through prayer, we learn to depend on him, to align our will with his, and to become more like him. Romans 8:26-29, James 5:16

The Lord is a God of justice, who knows no favorites. Though not unduly partial toward the weak, yet he hears the cry of the oppressed. The Lord is not deaf to the wail of the orphan, nor to the widow when she pours out her complaint. - Sirach 35:12-14

The one who serves God willingly is heard; his petition reaches the heavens. The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal, nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds, judges justly and affirms the right, and the Lord will not delay. - Sirach 35:16-18

Lord Jesus, no one goes to the Father except through You. In you, I am always secured of my rights and have always been justified. Thank You so much for constanlty bringing me close to the Father. 

May You find faith in me when You come. Each day I live by faith in You as my Lord and Savior. Faith that You will always be with me so that my joy will always be full and complete. 

Today, I persistently pray for healing and protection against any form of harm, sickness, or pains. I pray for the wisdom of being fair and just in all of the works and undertakings that You have set before me. May your ever protective hands be upon me against any form of greed, selfishness and dishonesty. 

I may be persistent in my daily prayers to You but I believed that the only reason why You kept on favorably acting upon my prayers petitions is because of the unconditional love You have for me. Please accept my humble offering of praise and thanksgiving for all that You have done and continue to do for me each moment of my life.

With much love, I give You back all the glory and honor now and forever. Amen.

Pericope: 
THE PARABLE OF THE PERSISTENT WIDOW - Luke 18:1-8
TRUE WORSHIP OF GOD - Sirach 35:1-24


Published:

November 16, 2024, 7:54 AM

November 18, 2023, 8:42 AM

October 27, 2019, 7:37 
October 20, 2013, 7:42 AM
November 13, 2010, 5:29AM

Persistent in Prayer

Gospel

Luke 18:1-8

1 Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary. He said, 2 “There was a judge in a certain town who neither feared God nor respected any human being. 3 And a widow in that town used to come to him and say, ‘Render a just decision for me against my adversary.’ 4 For a long time the judge was unwilling, but eventually he thought, ‘While it is true that I neither fear God nor respect any human being, 5 because this widow keeps bothering me I shall deliver a just decision for her lest she finally come and strike me.’” 6 The Lord said, “Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says. 7 Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? 8 I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”

Historical Background

This parable comes as Jesus is journeying toward Jerusalem, teaching about the coming of God’s kingdom and the need for readiness. It follows His teaching on the end times.

In Jewish society, widows were among the most vulnerable. Without a husband, they often lacked financial security and social standing. The Law commanded care for widows (Exodus 22:22; Deuteronomy 24:17), but in practice, many were neglected.

Judges in Jewish and Roman Context were expected to uphold justice according to the Torah. However, corruption was common—bribes, favoritism, and indifference plagued the system. The “unjust judge” in the parable reflects this reality: he neither fears God nor respects people.

The widow’s persistence in seeking justice echoes the common experience of marginalized people who had to fight tirelessly to be heard in courts dominated by the powerful.

Theological Context

Prayer and Perseverance. Luke introduces the parable with its purpose: “to show them that they should always pray and not give up”). Prayer is not about wearing God down but about cultivating trust and endurance.

Contrast, not Comparison. The unjust judge eventually grants justice because of the widow’s persistence. Jesus contrasts this with God: if even a corrupt judge responds, how much more will the righteous and loving God respond to His people’s cries.

Justice and Eschatology. The parable points to God’s ultimate vindication of His people. “Will not God bring about justice for His chosen ones, who cry out to Him day and night?”. This anticipates the final judgment and the coming of the Kingdom.

Faith at the End. The closing question—“When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?” shifts the focus. The issue is not whether God will act, but whether His people will remain faithful and persistent in prayer until the end.

Learning Lessons

Jesus encourages us to be persistent in our prayers. Just as the widow in the parable kept pleading with the unjust judge, we should continually bring our requests to God, trusting that He hears us. Let us to maintain our faith and trust in God, even when answers to our prayers seem delayed. We are reminded that God's timing is perfect, and He will act swiftly when the time is right.

Unlike the unjust judge, God is just and compassionate. He will bring about justice for His chosen ones who cry out to Him. This reassures us of God's fairness and His commitment to righting wrongs. 

These lessons inspire us to be persistent in prayer, trust in God's justice, maintain our faith, and reflect on the strength of our belief. 

Reflection for the Day

The widow represents all who feel powerless. God hears the cries of the vulnerable, and His justice is sure—even if human systems fail. Like the widow, we are called to keep praying even when answers seem delayed. Prayer is less about changing God’s mind and more about shaping our hearts to trust Him.

The parable challenges us: do we remain steadfast when God’s timing feels slow? Faith is tested not in moments of immediate answers but in seasons of waiting.

Today, reflect on an area of your life where you feel unheard or weary. Bring it persistently before God, trusting that He is not like the unjust judge but a loving Father who delights in justice and mercy. The question is not whether He will act, but whether we will keep faith until He does.

In the quiet of the night, 

When shadows fall and stars are bright, 

A whispered prayer, a heartfelt plea, 

Reaches up to eternity.

Through trials faced and burdens borne, 

In moments dark and hearts forlorn, 

We lift our voices, strong and clear, 

Persistent in our faith, sincere.

For in the silence, God does hear, 

Each whispered word, each fallen tear. 

With steadfast heart, we seek His face, 

And find our strength in His embrace.

So let us pray, both day and night, 

With faith unwavering, hearts alight. 

For in persistence, we shall find, 

God's love and peace, both pure and kind.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts full of faith and determination. Teach us to be persistent in our prayers, never losing hope or giving up, even when the answers seem delayed. Help us to trust in Your perfect timing and to believe that You hear every word we speak.

Grant us the strength to continue seeking Your guidance and the patience to wait for Your will to unfold in our lives. May our prayers be a reflection of our unwavering faith in Your love and power. Remind us that through persistence, we grow closer to You and deepen our relationship with You.

Lord, fill our hearts with the assurance that You are always with us, listening to our cries and understanding our needs. Help us to remain steadfast in our devotion, knowing that You will bring about justice and peace in Your perfect way.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE PARABLE OF THE PERSISTENT WIDOW

Luke 18:1-8

Gospel Acclamation

God has called us through the Gospel, to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

November 16, 2024, 7:49 AM

Time with God

 

Gospel

Luke 6:12-16

12 Jesus went up to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. 13 When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles: 14 Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, 15 Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, 16 and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.

Historical Background

This moment occurs early in Jesus’ public ministry, after growing tension with religious leaders over Sabbath observance and healing. Jesus retreats to a mountain—a traditional place of divine encounter in Jewish tradition (think Moses on Sinai).

Choosing twelve apostles echoes the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing a new spiritual foundation for God’s people. The men chosen were from varied backgrounds—fishermen, tax collectors, zealots—none were religious elites. Even Judas Iscariot, who would later betray Jesus, was included.

Theological Context

Jesus spends the entire night in prayer before making this pivotal decision. This models dependence on the Father and prioritizes spiritual discernment over human strategy.

The term “apostle” (Greek: apostolos) means “one who is sent.” These twelve were not just followers—they were entrusted with authority and mission.

The inclusion of Judas Iscariot reveals the mystery of divine choice. Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, yet still chose him—an act of radical grace and sovereignty.

Learning Lessons

Major decisions should be bathed in prayer. Jesus didn’t rush—He retreated, listened, and waited.

The apostles weren’t perfect. Their calling wasn’t based on merit but on divine purpose. Like Judas, we may falter. Yet Jesus still invites, equips, and loves us.

Reflection for the Day

Today, pause and ask: What decisions am I making without prayer? Who in my life feels “unlikely” yet may be divinely chosen? Am I willing to be sent, even with my flaws?

Let Jesus’ example challenge your rhythm. Before the noise of the day, climb your own “mountain” and seek the Father’s heart.

“The Mountain Called Me”

The mountain called me in the hush of night,

Where stars bore witness to prayer’s quiet fight.

No crowd, no clamor, just heaven’s breath,

As Jesus knelt and wrestled with death.

He named the twelve with trembling grace,

Each soul a story, each heart a place.

Even the traitor, chosen still—

A mystery wrapped in sovereign will.

Lord, call me too, though weak I stand,

Shape me gently with nail-scarred hands.

Let my yes be bold, my steps be true,

For I am one You’ve chosen too.

Lord Jesus, 

You withdrew to pray, to listen, to align with the Father’s will. Teach me to do the same—to seek Your voice before I speak, to wait before I move, to trust that You see beyond what I understand.

You chose the twelve, knowing their strengths and sins. You chose Judas, knowing his betrayal. Yet Your love did not waver. Choose me again today, Lord. Not because I am worthy, but because You are merciful. Send me where You will. Shape me into one who reflects Your grace. And when I falter, remind me: You still choose me. 

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Ministry in Galilee

THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE

Luke 6:12-16

Gospel Acclamation

We praise you, O God, we acclaim you as Lord; the glorious company of Apostles praise you.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

The Lord's Prayer

 

Gospel

Luke 11:1-4

1 Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John taught his disciples.” 2 He said to them, “When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be your name, your Kingdom come. 3 Give us each day our daily bread 4 and forgive us our sins for we ourselves forgive everyone in debt to us, and do not subject us to the final test.”

Background

The Lord’s Prayer, also known as the Our Father, is one of the most well-known and cherished prayers in Christianity. It was taught by Jesus to His disciples as a model for how to pray. It appears in two forms in the New Testament: a longer version in the Gospel of Matthew (6:9-13) and a shorter version in the Gospel of Luke (11:2-4)12. The prayer incorporates elements of Jewish prayers and teachings, reflecting themes such as reverence for God, requests for daily sustenance, forgiveness, and deliverance from evil.

Liturgical Adaptation

Early Christian communities adapted the prayer from the Gospel texts and taught it to new converts. The version we use today includes a doxology (“For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen”), which was added early in Christian liturgical practice.

Didachē: 

The doxology is believed to have originated in the Didachē, a compilation of Christian teachings from the 1st or 2nd century. The Lord’s Prayer is used by most Christian denominations in their worship services. Despite theological differences, it serves as a unifying prayer for Christians around the world. Following the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), the doxology was added to the Roman Catholic Mass, reflecting a gesture of ecumenism and unity among different Christian traditions.

The Lord’s Prayer is recited in various forms of daily prayer, such as the Roman Catholic rosary and the Anglican daily office. It continues to be a model for personal and communal prayer, emphasizing key aspects of Christian faith and practice. 

Key Elements:

Addressing God as Father: This signifies a personal and intimate relationship with God. 

Hallowed be Your name: Acknowledging the holiness and sanctity of God’s name. Start your day by acknowledging God’s holiness and greatness.

Your kingdom come, Your will be done: Expressing a desire for God’s reign and His will to be fulfilled on earth. In your decisions and actions, seek to align with God’s will and purpose.

Daily bread: Asking for God’s provision for our daily needs. Trust God to provide for your needs each day.

Forgiveness: Seeking God’s forgiveness for our sins and committing to forgive others. Practice forgiveness, both in seeking it from God and extending it to others.

Guidance and Protection: Asking for God’s guidance to avoid temptation and for protection from evil. Pray for strength to resist temptation and for protection from harm.

Our Father in heaven, so holy and true,

Your kingdom come, Your will we pursue.

On earth as in heaven, Your love we proclaim,

In every heart, we honor Your name.

Give us this day our daily bread,

Nourish our souls, by Your Spirit we’re led.

Forgive our trespasses, as we forgive,

In Your boundless grace, we learn to live.

Lead us not into temptation’s snare,

Deliver us, Lord, from every despair.

For Yours is the kingdom, the power, the glory,

Forever and ever, in Your wondrous story.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE LORD'S PRAYER

Luke 11:1-4

Gospel Acclamation 

You have received a spirit of adoption as sons through which we cry: Abba! Father!

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Co-Pilot

Published:

October 09, 2024, 7:48 AM

Prayer for Faithful Shepherds

Gracious Father,

We lift our hearts in prayer for the shepherds You have appointed to guide Your flock. These faithful leaders, after Your own heart, bear the weight of responsibility with love and dedication. They feed Your people with knowledge and understanding, nurturing souls toward repentance, restoration, and fruitfulness.

Lord, we pray for pastors who stand in pulpits, faithfully proclaiming Your Word. May their voices echo through our hearts, leading us closer to Christ. Grant them wisdom to rightly divide the Scriptures, that Your glory may shine forth. Strengthen their resolve to teach truth, even when it challenges us, for it is in the refining fire of Your Word that we find growth.

In our unfaithfulness, O God, You remain compassionate. Your steadfast love draws us back, inviting us to return to You. We confess our sins, knowing that Your forgiveness flows abundantly. May our hearts turn toward You, guided by shepherds who walk in integrity and humility.

As we journey through life’s valleys and mountaintops, may these shepherds point us to the Good Shepherd—the One who laid down His life for the sheep. May they lead us to green pastures and still waters, where our souls find rest. And when we stumble, may their hands extend grace, mirroring Your own.

Lord, we seek shepherds who mirror Your heart—a heart of compassion, justice, and faithfulness. May they be vessels of Your grace, conduits of Your love. Transform our lives through their faithful ministry, that we may bear fruit worthy of Your kingdom.

We pray all this in the name of Jesus, our Chief Shepherd, who knows each sheep by name. Amen.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

July 26, 2024, 6:04 AM

“The Mountain and the Multitude”

 

Gospel

Luke 6:12-19

12 Jesus departed to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. 13 When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles: 14 Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, 15 Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, 16 and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. 17 And he came down with them and stood on a stretch of level ground. A great crowd of his disciples and a large number of the people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coastal region of Tyre and Sidon 18 came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and even those who were tormented by unclean spirits were cured. 19 Everyone in the crowd sought to touch him because power came forth from him and healed them all.

Historical Background

This passage takes place early in Jesus’ public ministry, likely in Galilee, near the Sea of Gennesaret. Jesus had already begun teaching and healing, drawing large crowds.

The act of choosing twelve apostles was deeply symbolic. It echoed the twelve tribes of Israel, signaling a new spiritual foundation for God's people.

Roman occupation created tension and longing for a messianic deliverer. Many Jews expected a political savior, but Jesus’ actions pointed to a spiritual kingdom.

Theological Context

Jesus spent the entire night in prayer before making a major decision. This models dependence on the Father and the importance of spiritual discernment.

The apostles were ordinary men—fishermen, a tax collector, even a zealot. Their diversity shows that Jesus calls people from all walks of life to follow Him.

Jesus’ power to heal and cast out demons reveals His divine authority and compassion. His ministry was holistic—addressing both spiritual and physical needs.

Learning Lessons

Jesus’ power flowed from His relationship with the Father. Stay rooted in Him. He didn’t just preach—He healed. Our faith must be active in love.

Before big decisions, seek God’s guidance like Jesus did. Just as Jesus chose the Twelve, He calls each of us uniquely. You are not forgotten.

“The Mountain and the Multitude”

Upon the mountain, silence deep,

The Savior knelt, no time for sleep.

He prayed through night, the stars aglow,

For hearts to lead, for seeds to sow.

He called the Twelve with purpose clear,

To walk with Him, to draw them near.

From every tribe, a mirror cast,

A new beginning from the past.

He stepped below, the crowd did wait,

With wounds and hopes, with heavy weight.

His touch brought life, His voice gave peace,

From fear and pain, they found release.

O Lord who prays, who heals, who calls,

Lift us when doubt and darkness falls.

Let us be vessels, brave and true,

To share Your love in all we do.

Lord Jesus, 

You withdrew to the mountain to pray, teach me to seek the Father’s will in silence and surrender. You chose the Twelve with love and purpose, remind me that I, too, am called—uniquely, intentionally, eternally. You healed the broken and cast out darkness, touch my heart and restore what is wounded within me. Let Your power flow through me—not for my glory, but for the healing of others and the building of Your Kingdom. 

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Ministry in Galilee

THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE / MINISTERING TO A GREAT MULTITUDE

Luke 6:12-16 / 17-19

Gospel Acclamation

I chose you from the world, that you may go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot