Francis Gayang csc –
Readings: Ez 1:2-5, 24-28; Mt 17:22-27
Jesus reminded his disciples of the suffering and death that were approaching him, as prophesied by the prophets. However, the poor disciples were distressed as they were unable to understand what Jesus’ words could mean. They could not imagine how suffering and death can be possible to a prominent and influential teacher like Jesus.
Everything was cleared after the resurrection. They bore witness to all the events exactly as said by their master. Looking back, they were able to reconnect all those events like the flowers that form together a beautiful garland. Their distress turns into a spark of fire that burns with the hope in Christ. He is the hope in all the uncertainty of life. In him, we are called to be open and accept our limitations.
The Gospel also recorded Jesus paying taxes. Why does Jesus not criticize this system of taxing people, instead he himself paid taxes?
Jesus as a true human being, did not grant himself an exemption from abiding by the rules and regulations of the land. He exercises his full humanity following the system of the society. He pays what he is supposed to pay as a citizen.
I abide by the rules and regulations of society. The example of Jesus invites me to know that to be a good Christian I also must be a good citizen following my duty and responsibility as a person and as required by the law of the land without by-passing it in an unfair way.