Gospel: Mark 12:13-17
They sent to Jesus some Pharisees with members of Herod’s party, with the purpose of trapping him by his own words.
They came and said to Jesus, “Master, we know that you are truthful; you are not influenced by anyone, and your answers do not vary according to who is listening to you, but you truly teach God’s way.
Tell us, is it against the law to pay taxes to Caesar? Should we pay them or not?” But Jesus saw through their trick and answered, “Why are you testing me? Bring me a silver coin and let me see it.”
They brought him one and Jesus asked, “Whose image is this, and whose name?” They answered, “Caesar’s.” Then Jesus said, “Give back to Caesar what
is Caesar’s, and to God, what is God’s.” And they were greatly astonished.Reflection
We have obligations to earthly authorities.
Whose image are you? Jesus, tested by the Pharisees about paying taxes, asked for a coin and inquired, " Whose image is this? “ When they answered, “Caesar’s,” Jesus replied, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” Jesus’s response illustrated a profound truth about accountability.
As citizens, we have obligations to earthly authorities, but our ultimate responsibility lies with God, for we are created in His image and likeness. Our identity is that of children of God. All that we are and everything we possess belongs to God, and we are responsible to Him. One day, we will face our Creator and give an account of how we lived as His children, whether we honored Him with our time, gifts, and choices.
Let us be diligent in our earthly and spiritual responsibilities, remembering that our most significant duty is to offer our hearts fully to God. Lord, bless me today so I may never forget who I am before you.
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