“All their works are performed to be seen.” Matthew 23:5

Our society is all about the “Influencers” right now. So much time and energy go into building a following on social media and creating a stir for the latest cause or trend. This is not necessarily bad, but the invitation today from Jesus seems to draw us out of the spotlight. 

Have you ever known someone who is a quiet saint? They are always working in small ways behind the scenes helping things run smoothly at church or the shelter. You don’t see them cleaning, cooking, moving chairs, etc. You just know these things have been done. You see them at all hours of the day or night, praying quietly at Adoration in the church, but you don’t even know their name. 

There are many unsung heroes of our faith who humbly pray and work for the Lord, yet we will never know them. The spotlight won’t be following them around. No one will be praising their work or building a statue in their honor. But the Lord smiles upon them. He is pleased and the glory in heaven that awaits them will be beautiful. 

We all know St. Teresa of Calcutta (Mother Teresa), but what about all the other Sisters of Charity that go about day in and day out, cleaning the wounds of the poorest of the poor and giving the dying the dignity due their humanity as children of God? What about the young college student who donates his time at the pregnancy resource center stacking boxes of diapers and formula and quietly prays outside the abortion clinic? What about the mom with her three children out grocery shopping, who grabs some extra cans of soup and boxes of cereal, even though the budget is tight, and drops them off at the food bank on the way home? Aren’t all of these quiet saints who are doing good simply because it is the right thing to do and not for the praise of others? 

Today, Jesus calls us to serve others, to lighten their burdens, and to intercede in prayer for those who need it, not because we want to be noticed or thanked, but simply because it is God’s will. Humility is the goal this Lent. Our good deeds are to be done simply for the Lord and not for human praise. If we work to become quiet saints, what a beautiful example we will be giving our world that pushes us to seek fame and influence. And then, the words of the Lord saying, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” will ring loud and clear in all of heaven. 

Reflection Questions: Do you ever find yourself seeking praise for something you’ve done? Do you feel hurt if no one notices? How can you remove your pride and embrace a more humble attitude when doing good? Maybe you are still getting your feet under you in terms of almsgiving and works of mercy. Maybe life has been so busy that you're lucky to feed your own family much less trying to feed strangers. This Lent, see if you can find the time to do something different that gives back to others. And do it without praise or notice. Become a quiet saint. 

Prayer: Lord, remove from my mind and heart the need to be seen for what I do. Let my works be seen only by You and may they please Your Sacred Heart. I want to be a quiet saint for You. Show me where to serve. Amen.