The answer is: In secret

Matt 6:1-18 - Not like the Pharisees who made sure everyone knew what good works they were doing

In Matthew 6:1-18, we find Jesus emphasizing the importance of sincerity over showmanship when it comes to charity, prayer, and fasting. His teaching nudges us to reflect on our internal intentions and motivations. Imagine living in first-century Judea, where boasting about piety could easily elevate one’s social standing. Jesus steps in, countering this puffed-up display with a revolutionary call to humility.

He encourages performing these acts in secret, pointing out that what truly matters is not the applause of other people but the authentic connection made with the Divine. It's a fascinating peek into a culture where public acclaim could easily overshadow true compassion.

Did you know that the word used for “charitable giving” (in Greek, *eleemosynē*) relates to mercy? In this light, giving becomes less of an obligatory task and more about embodying grace. The encouragement to pray in private or fast without anyone knowing stems from the idea that these acts should nourish our spirit, not serve as badges of honor.

Interestingly, many ancient traditions held that fasting was also a communal experience, done to align with the society or community, but Jesus revolutionized that by suggesting fasting could be deeply personal and intimate. This paved the way for what we now understand as a spiritual journey—one that doesn’t rely on the approval of others but on a heartfelt pursuit of deeper connection and understanding. Through this lens, every act of kindness, each whisper of prayer, and moment of reflection can be a tapestry of genuine faith, woven silently within the sacred spaces of our hearts.