Please read the Scripture passage before the homily.
We use moderation in eating, we donate to good causes, and we pray. Even our enemies do these things; Vladimir Putin is highly respected in his Church. The problem is not in the practice of doing good, but in the pretending to do good, of doing good for ulterior motives.
The ancient people often used stereotypes, such as referring to scribes and Pharisees, who were often disliked, as hypocrites. We do the same today. We use the term politician as if all politicians were self-seeking, prejudiced and liars. We are, however, making some progress in not stereotyping certain races or people as less than human, although we can make even more progress in not speaking of outsiders to our groups disparagingly.
Today, when we reflect on our reading, we should translate the word hypocrite as ourselves. “Woe to us who broadcast our virtues so that others think better of us!” Let us pray, let us give alms and make charitable donations, let us fast or donate food, not for the photo-ops we get, but to remedy tough situations quietly.
There is no virtue in photo-ops, in tax deductions, in a reputation for good works. There is much virtue in the rich and famous person who does not wear expensive clothing and accessories, but who quietly directs his large income into the community where he has grown up. There is much virtue in those who quietly use their influence to make better opportunities for others. There is much virtue in the politician who favors laws to help the average person and the needy rather than his or her own self or political party. The reward for photo-ops is the passing fame of looking virtuous; the reward for genuine goodness is in the hidden recognition that God gives, the lasting recognition of goodness.
Accordingly, we are sent out today to do righteous deeds, to pray, and to channel our excess food to the needy, all done quietly and without fanfare. Tomorrow’s assignment is to repeat today’s assignment again.