Mark 12:13-17 NRSVue

¹³Then they sent to him some Pharisees and some Herodians to trap him in what he said. ¹⁴And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere and show deference to no one, for you do not regard people with partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? ¹⁵Should we pay them, or should we not?” But knowing their hypocrisy, he said to them, “Why are you putting me to the test? Bring me a denarius and let me see it.” ¹⁶And they brought one. Then he said to them, “Whose head is this and whose title?” They answered, “Caesar’s.” ¹⁷Jesus said to them, “Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.” And they were utterly amazed at him.

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Some thoughts on this scripture

Reflection
People have worked on this reply of Jesus, some hankering for revolution against an oppressive regime, some trying to bolster their conservatism. What is your answer, Lord? You hungered and thirsted for justice, and heard the cry of the poor. In all your preaching you championed the cause of the destitute. But you sought change by peaceful means, even turning the other cheek to violence. And in acknowledging the need to pay taxes, you accepted that a properly run state is better than anarchy and jungle law.

Reflection
Only give divinity to God - is that the meaning of the text today? The Pharisees and Herodians got a lot from being under Roman rule, and Jesus has as much as told them they owe something in return. But life and truth and religion are more than political. As the emperor was seen as almost divine, Jesus asserted that only God is divine and only to God is worship due. In our prayer and worship we render what is due to God.

Reflection
Jesus had to have his wits about him. People were often trying to trap him - asking questions to which any answer would compromise him - one way or another. He often asked, 'Why put me to the test?'. He knew the complexities of the opposition. He advised us to pray also that we would not be put to the test, or led into temptation. Jesus made decisions from the wisdom of his relationship with the Father.

Reflection
Although the approach of the Pharisees was flattering and courteous, Jesus recognised that he was being tested. I pray that I may have the presence of mind not to be distracted by empty conversations.

Reflection
Jesus points to the importance of giving due attention in the various spheres of life. I ask God to help me to fulfil as well as I can the different roles that I occupy.

Reflection
People have worked on this reply of Jesus, some hankering for revolution against an oppressive regime, some trying to bolster their conservatism. What is your answer, Lord? You hungered and thirsted for justice, and heard the cry of the poor. In all your preaching you championed the cause of the destitute. But you sought change by peaceful means, even turning the other cheek to violence. And in acknowledging the need to pay taxes, you accepted that a properly run state is better than anarchy and jungle law.