The Three Eminent Good Works: Spiritual Treasures of the Heart

In the Gospel, Jesus gently offers us three practices—prayer, fasting, and alms giving—calling them acts of righteousness that draw us closer to God (Matthew 6:1-18). Known in Catholic teaching as the Three Eminent Good Works, they’re not mere duties but spiritual gifts, pathways to grow in love for God and neighbor. The Catechism echoes their value (CCC 1434, 1969), rooting them in grace. Please allow me to share their beauty with you, and how they might bless your spirit today.

The Good Works: Pillars of Grace

1. Prayer
   

   Prayer is our soul’s conversation with God, a lifting of the heart to Him (CCC 2559). Jesus teaches us to pray humbly, as in the Our Father (Matthew 6:5-13), whether in silence, at Mass, or with a rosary. It’s a quiet moment—perhaps before dawn or after a long day—that fills our spirit with peace, aligning us with His will. Spiritually, it’s our breath, keeping us alive in faith.

2. Fasting
   

   Fasting is a gentle “no” to self, a way to hunger for God above all (Matthew 6:16-18). It’s not just Lent’s ashes—it might be skipping a meal, a treat, or a distraction, offering it up with love. This act purifies our soul, teaching it discipline and trust in God’s provision. Spiritually, it empties us to be filled with His presence, a sacrifice that sings.

3. Almsgiving
   

   Alms giving is love made tangible, sharing our blessings with those in need (Matthew 6:2-4). It’s a coin for the poor, time for the lonely, or support for a cause—done quietly, not for praise. Spiritually, it opens our heart, breaking the grip of greed to reflect God’s generosity. It’s a work that binds our soul to others, seeing Christ in every face.

Why They Shine

These works are eminent—outstanding—because they touch every part of us: prayer lifts our spirit to God, fasting masters our body, alms giving turns our hands outward. Jesus ties them to the heart, warning against showiness (Matthew 6:1), while the Church sees them as “means of obtaining purification” (CCC 1434). They’re spiritual because they draw us into God’s life, echoing His love, sacrifice, and mercy.

Living Them with Grace

You’re warmly invited to weave these into your days. Prayer might be a whispered thanks at sunrise or a candlelit minute at night. Fasting could be a lighter lunch, paired with a prayer for the hungry. Alms giving might mean a kind gift—money, a smile, a skill—shared without fanfare. They’re simple acts, but spiritually, they plant seeds of holiness in our soul.

A Spiritual Harmony

The saints lived these with joy—St. Teresa prayed ceaselessly, St. Francis fasted with cheer, St. Vincent de Paul gave all. They show us these works aren’t burdens but bridges to God. Perhaps today, you’ll try a quiet prayer or skip a coffee for someone’s need. Each one stirs our spirit, tuning it to Christ’s rhythm.

A Loving Invitation

The Three Eminent Good Works are the Church’s tender way of saying, “Come closer to Me.” They’re not heavy loads but spiritual joys, shaping us for heaven.

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