Mt 22:15-21
15The Pharisees went off and plotted how they might entrap [Jesus] in speech. 16They sent their disciples to him, with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are a truthful man and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. And you are not concerned with anyone’s opinion, for you do not regard a person’s status.
17Tell us, then, what is your opinion: Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not?” 18Knowing their malice, Jesus said, “Why are you testing me, you hypocrites? 19Show me the coin that pays the census tax.” Then they handed him the Roman coin. 20He said to them, “Whose image is this and whose inscription?” 21They replied, “Caesar’s.” At that he said to them, “Then repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.”
Reflection:
To God what belongs to God. The passage tells us at least three things. One, we cannot claim everything for ourselves alone. There is one thing for Pedro and another for Juan. What is for Pedro is for Pedro, and what is for Juan is for Juan. What is good for Pedro may not be good for Juan.
Two, your work for God should not be an excuse to neglect your neighbor. And your work for others should not be a substitute for your time with God. You have an obligation to God and to society as well.
Three, everyone has a corresponding and appropriate need. Your kids, not your hobby, need your time. Your wife, not your work, deserves your love. Your God needs your faith. “I desire mercy, not sacrifice” (Mt 9:13). “Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.”
Give 15 serious minutes each for your kids individually this week.