Matthew 22:15-22 (NRSV)
Read Matthew 22:15-22 on biblegateway.com
Verse 15Then the Pharisees went and plotted to entrap him in what he said. Verse 16So they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, "Teacher, we know that you are sincere, and teach the way of God in accordance with truth, and show deference to no one; for you do not regard people with partiality. Verse 17Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?" Verse 18But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, "Why are you putting me to the test, you hypocrites? Verse 19Show me the coin used for the tax." And they brought him a denarius. Verse 20Then he said to them, "Whose head is this, and whose title?" Verse 21They answered, "The emperor's." Then he said to them, "Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor's, and to God the things that are God's." Verse 22When they heard this, they were amazed; and they left him and went away.
Devotion
Can devotion for our country can interfere with our devotion to God? It’s a touchy issue, but one worth discussing in a time of renewed patriotism. Veterans tell me that they fought for God and country. I believe them and am grateful for the freedoms they have won for me. But a persistent question nags: Are the cause of God and the cause of the American government identical? What do we mean when we sing “God Bless America?” Are we asking God to bless us with a spirit of generosity, compassion, and love for our neighbors (both inside and outside of this country), even if it means we end up giving a little more of our time, our money, ourselves for the sake of justice and peace?
Prayer
Creator and sustainer of the universe, bless us to be a blessing to all your people. Amen