Friends,
This Sunday, the call is to ‘give to God what belongs to God.’ The readings concentrate on God as ruler over all the world. The first reading teaches us about the relationship between God and Cyrus, one of the most influential earthly rulers. Even though Cyrus did not know God, God used him and gave him all that he needed to help accomplish God’s plans.
The Psalmist calls us to speak of the Lord’s greatness and glory throughout the world and to honor and worship him. In the second reading, St. Paul thanks God and prays for the Christian community in Thessalonica. The community is chosen and loved by God and supported by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, the Thessalonian community continues to work, strengthened by its faith and hope in God.
The Gospel message is that we belong entirely to God and are therefore called to offer him our entire selves. Jesus is aware that the Pharisees’ and Herodians’ intention is to trap him when they ask if Jewish people should pay taxes to the Romans. Although he confirms that this is reasonable, he also affirms that our first duty is to serve God and give Him what is due.
This week, let us pray for the leaders of our world and ask that God will work through them for justice and peace.
Joy and peace.
