By Nibin K Cyriac csc –
Readings: Is 45:1, 4-6; 1 Thes 1:1-5; Mt 22:15-21
In the gospel, we see a courageous leader and a bold teacher in Jesus. He was courageous to rebuke the pharisees, asking them, “why are you putting me to the test, you hypocrites?” He was never hesitant in correcting people. At the same time, he was a loyal citizen. We see him paying taxes that he was obliged to.
He also encouraged his disciples to be loyal to the state by performing their duties (Mt 17:27). He was sincere, truthful, and never showed partiality to anyone. He loved everyone and taught them equally. Classification, richness, status, educational qualities, and positions in society never stood as blocks for him. Through his teachings, he proclaimed a kingdom of equality, justice, and equal opportunity. We may have collaborators and colleagues at our workplace, and people who work under us.
There can be people who love us more, who respect us, who do favours for us. But the reading is inviting each one of us to be bold enough to fight injustice and exploitation of power in our society. The readings of today teach us not to be persons who are partial and dividing others with our words and behaviour. Let us be human first without any titles and treat others with dignity and love.