I am a Jesus pusher!!! Jesus again highlights secrecy in the third religious observance, “fasting” (Matthew 6:16-18). His insistence on secrecy is not the same as the kingdom of darkness. It is not about being underhanded or hidden. It is about pride. It is a focus on performing deeds for the sake of self-gain. He injects the idea of reward. Earning, meriting, and achieving are preset in this motive. Jesus begins with the negative, moves to the positive, and then returns to the negative. We must clearly see the correct motive in view of the two negatives. “Fasting” has to do with how the physical needs correspond to the spiritual reality. I can only properly understand this relationship as I am in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Jesus begins with charitable deeds (Matthew 6:19-24). In these brief verses He pounds the issue of your focus on treasure. He contrasts treasures on earth with treasures in heaven. Note the difference between on (epi) and in (en)! “Epi” primarily focuses on “rest” or “no motion.” The focus of treasures on earth is earth rather than heaven. The treasures on earth are in constant motion or flux. They are eroding and always escaping. They are definitely limited to “upon” the earth. Treasures never take anyone beyond the physical aspect. The treasures in heaven never move, erode, or escape. A focus on Jesus builds and increases intimacy with Him. Jesus always takes us to greater levels. I am expanding as a Jesus pusher!!!