In today’s Gospel, we see Christ faced with an explosive situation – a group of Pharisees try to trap him by asking one of the most divisive questions for Jewish people of his day: “Is it permissible to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” If he argues against paying taxes he could be accused of sedition against the Romans, but if he supports payment, then he could lose popular support. It’s a very dangerous trap. Jesus, however, is a step ahead of their clever conspiracy. He doesn’t directly answer their specific question. Instead, he leads them to find the answer to their own question – an answer found in a most surprising place – in their own pockets! “Show me a coin,” he said. “Whose image is this?” “Caesar’s.” So, if they choose to accept the advantages of the Roman Empire such as better roads, commercial opportunities and international protection, then they should be prepared to pay for them. Think about the things we have in our modern-day pockets – mobile phones, credit cards, car keys – what do these represent in our lives? What price do we pay for them? Are these the most important things in my life?

OK. But Jesus continues, “Give to God what belongs to God.” As always, Jesus takes the discussion to a higher level by challenging his listeners (including us!) to think deeply about what truly belongs to God. And the answer to that question we can simply find by looking in the mirror! Scripture tells us we are made in the image and likeness of God, so in a mystical way, we bear the imprint or image of God in ourselves, just as a coin bears the image of the ruler of that nation. So our deepest value and dignity come not from things we have or own, or from our social status - but from our God-given dignity and identity as a beloved child of God. So, a simple but profound question from Jesus – do the deepest values and priorities of my life reflect this understanding of what really matters in life? Or have I misjudged the priorities and loyalties of my life? May Jesus help us to reveal his face and presence to others.


With blessings & prayers from Fr Richard, Fr Ephrem & all the parish team
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