Hidden Glory: Seeking God’s Eyes, Not Man’s Praise
Today’s reading focuses on St. Paul’s exhortation to the Corinthians, exploring the theme of abundance in self-giving within the Christian life.
Using the metaphor of sowing and harvesting, the Homily critiques a minimalist attitude in spirituality, where individuals do just enough to “check the box” rather than joyfully offering their best.
St. Paul’s call to be “a cheerful giver” extends beyond charity . . . it involves giving oneself fully and joyfully in prayer, ministry, and service. The teaching is echoed in Christ’s Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus urges purity of intention in almsgiving, prayer, and fasting . . . not seeking human approval, but God’s favor.
The contrast between outward performance and inner authenticity is emphasized, warning against hypocrisy. The Eucharist becomes the ultimate model: Christ, the cheerful giver, offers himself daily in hidden humility. The Homily ends with an invitation to imitate that same abundant and joyful self-giving in all aspects of life.
Listen to:
Hidden Glory: Seeking God’s Eyes, Not Man’s Praise
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A Quote from the Homily
This is why St. Paul punctuates that discussion with the statement God loves a cheerful giver. Not one whose generosity is reluctant or grudging, but one who actually enjoys the act of giving.
What a remarkable statement that is. And in speaking that way, he’s not simply instructing us on mere extension of charity. He’s not talking about the giving of gifts; he’s talking about the giving of oneself. Because in the end, that is what we’re talking about, sowing.
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Saint Paul Preaching: Italian Painter: Raphael: 1515
Saint Paul preaching the Areopagus Sermon in Athens.
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Gospel Reading: Matthew 6: 1-6, 16-18
First Reading: 2 Corinthians 9: 6-11
