Set a good Example

Gospel
Matthew 17:22-27
'They will put the Son of Man to death'

One day when they were together in Galilee, Jesus said to his disciples, ‘The Son of Man is going to be handed over into the power of men; they will put him to death, and on the third day he will be raised to life again.’ And a great sadness came over them.
When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the half-shekel came to Peter and said, ‘Does your master not pay the half-shekel?’ ‘Oh yes’ he replied, and went into the house. But before he could speak, Jesus said, ‘Simon, what is your opinion? From whom do the kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their sons or from foreigners?’ And when he replied, ‘From foreigners’, Jesus said, ‘Well then, the sons are exempt. However, so as not to offend these people, go to the lake and cast a hook; take the first fish that bites, open its mouth and there you will find a shekel; take it and give it to them for me and for you.’

Reflection
Why did Christ pay the tax? Being son of the land he could just have said no. Instead he said Yes. Why he did that is because he want to set a good example by respecting those in authority. The question is are we doing the same?

Let us pray
Lord Jesus Thank you for bringing order to our lives. Help us to respect the authorities you have established for the sake of the world and for the Church. Guide us by your spirit to serve your will.

Amen

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