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Give back to God




June 2

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 – Mark 12:13-17
The Pharisees and Herodians tried to trap Jesus with a political question about paying taxes to Caesar. If He answered "yes," some people would reject Him. If He answered "no," He could be accused of rebellion against Rome. Yet Jesus saw through their hypocrisy and responded with wisdom: "Give back to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God."
Jesus reminds us that while we have responsibilities in society, our deepest allegiance belongs to God. Money, possessions, careers, and status may bear the mark of the world, but our hearts bear the image of God. We are created by Him and for Him. The question is not only whether we give God our prayers on Sunday, but whether we give Him our whole lives every day.

Question for Reflection
What area of my life am I holding back from God instead of fully giving it to Him?

Prayer
Lord Jesus,
You teach us to live faithfully in the world while keeping our hearts centered on God. Help me to fulfill my responsibilities with honesty and integrity, and to give myself completely to You. May my thoughts, words, and actions reflect Your love each day. Amen.



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