The sermon explores what Jesus truly means when he warns against being hypocrites. While we often think of hypocrites as public figures exposed for moral failure, Jesus is pointing to something deeper. The word “hypocrite” comes from Greek drama and means “actor” — someone who wears a mask and plays a part. It is about pretending, appearing one way outwardly while hiding what is real within.

This kind of masking is common. We all play roles at times, sometimes out of politeness or self-protection. But over time, loneliness, pain, and fear can harden into masks of anger, resentment, and judgment. When we focus on fixing others or pointing out their faults, we avoid facing our own need for forgiveness and healing. We trap ourselves in old patterns because humility feels threatening.

Religion, rightly practiced, is not about performance or public piety. It is meant to protect us from the human tendencies that separate us from God and one another. At its heart is the radical truth that no one is better than anyone else — humility is the currency of the Kingdom of God.

The sign of the cross placed on our foreheads is not a performance for others. It is a personal and communal reminder that there is no room for pretending. It marks the beginning of an inward journey of repentance and honesty. In that visible moment, we acknowledge our shared humanity: we are dust, and to dust we shall return.

Lent begins with humility — removing the mask, embracing our need for grace, and following Jesus, the humanity of God.