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Paying Tax

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
There are two occasions when Christ talk about tax. The first occasion Christ talk about give back to Ceaser what belongs to the Ceaser. Today Christ put it into practice by paying the half shekel. It is also a reminder we must pay our tax and respect the government of the day. When we do that we can practice our faith without being persecuted. 

Let us pray
 Lord Jesus help us to respect the government of the day so that we may continue to do your will without persecution.

Amen

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