That I’m pretty comfortable being a “front man” is not a surprise to anyone who knows me. I don’t think I long for the limelight, but I am pretty comfortable being up front and center. Since I was a little kid, I’ve had opportunity . . . pre-salvation and post-salvation . . . to be on stage . . . to be on the platform . . . to be at the front of the class . . . to do what I do in front of others. But, while I think that being “on stage” is tied to my calling, I’m also reminded this morning that it can be a dangerous place . . . or, at least, lead to a dangerous place.

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven.”   (Matthew 6:1 ESV)

As Jesus continues His sermon on the mount, He addresses acts of righteousness . . . giving, praying, fasting. All good stuff . . . but, Jesus reminds His listeners, there is a right way and a not so right way. There is a “how” factor and a “why” factor that, while potentially missed by men, is taken note of by the Father. Acts of righteousness can be done “on stage” in order to be seen by men or, they can be done “in secret” where only the Father sees.

On stage giving to the needy is proceeded with trumpet blasts heralding that someone who has lots is about to freely (and publicly) part with some of his treasure for the sake of the . . . wait for it . . . bring the orphans before his feet . . . for the sake of the “less fortunate.” On stage, the busiest street corner is found to set up the prayer platform . . . a bit of clearing of the throat . . . a bit of clasping of the hands together . . . pull out the dictionary of theological big words . . . and, at the top of your voice, let ‘er rip. Fasting? On stage, make sure you send away the makeup lady . . . gaunt, you want gaunt . . . look hungry . . . help others to know what a sacrifice it is to undertake such a righteous discipline. “On stage” the returns are immediate . . . the praise of others.

But, says Jesus, be careful of the stage . . . instead get “in the secret.” Giving? Don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Praying? Find a room . . . close the door . . . just you and the Father . . . and raise your heart and voice. Fasting? Anoint your head (aka comb your hair, I think), wash your face, no one should know. The reward? Stored up in heaven . . . a prize determined by the Father, who sees in secret, and promises to reward those who do what they do for Him, and Him alone.

There’s a time to be on stage . . . but even there, it’s the “in the secret” stuff that the Father notices . . . that the Father delights in . . . that the Father who sees in secret rewards.

Important for me to check my heart from time to time. To examine if my Christian walk is being influenced by a temptation to perform for an audience of men or if it is a Spirit-driven pursuit for the pleasure of an Audience of One.

Yeah, I’m ok being on stage . . . if that’s God’s desire. But oh, how I want to learn more and more to operate in secret.

“And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”   (Matthew 4:4b, 6b, 18b)

My reward . . . His glory . . .