Oftentimes we are complicit in evil through participation in human systems we give little heed to. Jesus reminds us that our complicity is a choice; a choice with far-reaching consequences.
READING
Matthew 22:15-22
The Pharisees went and plotted to entrap Jesus in what he said. So 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. Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?” But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why are you putting me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin used for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. Then he said to them, “Whose head is this, and whose title?” They 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.” When they heard this, they were amazed; and they left him and went away.
PRAYERS
Pondering the relationship between our duties to God and our duties as citizens, let us pray for ourselves and for the whole world.
That all in our community may know what is God’s and what is Caesar’s, and may have the courage so to live.
That God will guide our country, its leaders, and its citizens, that justice, mercy and peace will be our highest values.
That the leaders of the church may preach the gospel not merely in words but in the mighty power of the Holy Spirit.
That each of us, following Jesus, may be truthful, courting no one’s favor, but living with simplicity and candor.
That through the faith, love, and constancy of Christians, God’s glory might be made manifest for all people.
That all the people in the church may live their faith and labor in love for the poor, the homeless, the imprisoned, the persecuted, and the sick, and that by God’s power the suffering of all may be relieved.
O God, ruler of all, grant that our nation and its citizens may respond to your call, and that we may live out all civic virtues in honesty and integrity. We ask this in the name of Jesus, your Son and our Lord. Amen.
MUSIC
King Herod’s Song
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gYguaIBlLw
Brooke Howard,a sophomore at NYU's ETW sings King Herod's song from Jesus Christ Superstar at NYU 2009.
Every time I feel the Spirit
Roger McGuin
FMA
Seek ye first the kingdom of God
The VGK-Sarepta Children Choir at Bellville SDA Church
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FuurRAJkZY
Lord’s prayer in Aramaic
Archimandrite Seraphim & parishioners in Qanda, Georgia Assyrian Orthodox Church
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKTqp55q7CE