REFLECTION
The theme for our reflection is “INSTRUCTIONS: WHAT IS IMPORTANT.” In our daily lives, we are bombarded with instructions—how to operate a new gadget, follow a recipe, or perform at work. However, the most critical instructions are those that govern our hearts and our spiritual direction. To follow instructions effectively, we must first understand what is “important”—that which carries significant value, weight, or lasting consequence.
In our focus scripture, Matthew 6:16-24, Jesus provides us with clear instructions on how to live a life that pleases God. From this passage, we learn two key lessons: first, that the motive behind our actions is more important than the actions themselves, and second, that our ultimate loyalty cannot be divided.
The Heart Behind the Action
Jesus begins by giving instructions on fasting. He warns us not to look sombre or disfigure our faces to show others we are fasting. He says, “Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full” (Matthew 6:16). The instruction here is simple: do not perform for an audience of men.
What is important to God is not the outward display of piety, but the inward sincerity of the heart. When we do things just to be noticed—whether it is giving to the poor, praying loudly, or serving in the church—we are seeking a temporary, earthly reward. Jesus instructs us to “put oil on your head and wash your face” (Matthew 6:17) so that our fasting is seen only by the Father.
A practical example of this is our modern use of social media. It is easy to post a photo of ourselves doing a good deed to get “likes” and comments. But Jesus asks us: Who are you doing this for? If the “like” is your goal, then that is your only reward. As Proverbs 16:2 reminds us, “All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord.”
Where is Your Treasure?
The second part of the passage moves from our motives to our masters. Jesus instructs us not to store up treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, but to store up treasures in heaven. He explains the reason clearly: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).
We often think we can balance a love for worldly wealth with a love for God, but Jesus is firm. He states, “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24). What is important is where we place our trust. If we spend all our energy chasing money, status, or material things, those things become our master. They dictate our happiness and our peace. However, when we prioritise God’s kingdom, we invest in things that last forever—kindness, faith, and leading others to Christ.
Consider a person who works so hard to buy a luxury car that they have no time for their family or their faith. Eventually, that car will rust or become outdated. But the time spent pouring love into a child or serving a neighbour creates a legacy that “moths and vermin” cannot touch.
Conclusion
To summarise, the instructions Jesus gives us in Matthew 6:16-24 are a call to re-evaluate our priorities. What is important is not how holy we look to others, but how sincere we are before God. What is important is not how much wealth we accumulate on earth, but how much we invest in the things of heaven.
I call upon you today to look at your “to-do list” and your “want list.” Ask yourself: “Am I doing this for God’s glory or my own?” and “Is this treasure temporary or eternal?” Let us choose to serve one Master with an undivided heart.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your clear instructions. Forgive us for the times we have sought the praise of people instead of Your approval. Help us to shift our focus from earthly treasures to heavenly ones. Give us the strength to serve You alone, with a heart that is pure and eyes that are fixed on Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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