In today’s Gospel, Jesus is presented with one question. As was the case in last week’s Gospel, Jesus finds himself in the position to offer insight into his expectations.

Our Gospel begins with two opposing groups attempting to trick Jesus with one question. They are hopeful that he will mistakenly break one rule by favoring another.

“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. Tell us, then, what is your opinion: Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not?”

But Jesus is not fooled. Our Gospel continues and Jesus responds.

“He said to them, ‘Whose image is this and whose inscription?’ They replied, ‘Caesar’s.’ At that he said to them, ‘Then repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.’

This response indicates that no choice must be made. God’s rules and those of the land coexist.

What is one way of living by God’s rules? At CMMB, we follow God’s commandment to love our neighbors near and far, providing the promise of health to those who need it most.