A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 17:22-27)
Jesus said to Peter: “But that we may not offend them, go to the sea, drop in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up. Open its mouth and you will find a coin worth twice the temple tax. Give that to them for me and for you.”
In today’s Gospel, Matthew recounts Jesus’ prediction of his own death and resurrection. Following that, Jesus also provides instruction regarding the payment of the temple tax. Jesus asks Peter whether the kings of the earth collect taxes from their own sons or from foreigners. “From foreigners,” Peter says. Jesus then tells him that the sons are free from paying the tax but to avoid giving offense, they will pay it. He instructs Peter to go to the sea, drop in a hook, and take the first fish that comes up. In the fish’s mouth, Peter finds a coin to pay the temple tax for both Jesus and himself. The reading for today shows that Jesus is aware of the mission he must fulfill and also demonstrates his humility in paying the temple tax to avoid unnecessary conflict.
God, help me understand today’s readings in light of my own life. Let me consider the words of Moses to the people of Israel: “What does the LORD, your God, ask of you but to fear the LORD, your God, and follow his ways exactly, to love and serve the LORD, your God, with all your heart and all your soul, to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD which I enjoin on you today for your own good?” At the Auschwitz concentration camp, Saint Maximilian Kolbe offered his own life in place of a fellow prisoner, a husband and father, so that the man could live. How far am I willing to love and serve you, Lord? Give me love and understanding to serve you, God, and the courage to follow you whatever the cost.
From the Gospel acclamation: “God has called you through the Gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Saint Maximilian Kolbe, pray for us!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.