Give back to God what belongs to God

Gospel

Mark 12:13-17

Give back to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God

The chief priests and the scribes and the elders sent to Jesus some Pharisees and some Herodians to catch him out in what he said. These came and said to him, ‘Master, we know you are an honest man, that you are not afraid of anyone, because a man’s rank means nothing to you, and that you teach the way of God in all honesty. Is it permissible to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay, yes or no?’ Seeing through their hypocrisy he said to them, ‘Why do you set this trap for me? Hand me a denarius and let me see it.’ They handed him one and he said, ‘Whose head is this? Whose name?’ ‘Caesar’s’ they told him. Jesus said to them, ‘Give back to Caesar what belongs to Caesar – and to God what belongs to God.’ This reply took them completely by surprise.

Reflection

The best kept secret in winning argument is to back away. In that way you get to diffuse the situation. When it comes to Christ it is not as simple because either way he answer he will offend someone. However in this situation he gave a neutral answer so no one is offended.However his answer teach us give back both what belong to the Government and God. Do you give back to God what belongs to God?

Let us pray

Lord Jesus draw me to you, Lord, in the fullness of love. I am wholly yours by creation; make me all yours, too, in love.

Amen

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