Mark 12:13-17 | Psalm 47:8-9
The layers of this conversation between Jesus and the Pharisees/Herod’s supporters are wonderful. There is of course the final conclusion that God’s kingdom and Caesar’s empire don’t strive for the same things. But all the stuff in between - Jesus is as wise as he is masterful, patient and simple as he is profound.
The kind of leader many would want to follow.
Mark 12:13-17
They sent some of the Pharisees and supporters of Herod to trap him in his words. They came to him and said, “Teacher, we know that you’re genuine and you don’t worry about what people think. You don’t show favoritism but teach God’s way as it really is. Does the Law allow people to pay taxes to Caesar or not? Should we pay taxes or not?”
Since Jesus recognized their deceit, he said to them, “Why are you testing me? Bring me a coin. Show it to me.” And they brought one. He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?”
“Caesar’s,” they replied.
Jesus said to them, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” His reply left them overcome with wonder.
Psalm 47:8-9
God is king over the nations.
God sits on his holy throne.
The leaders of all people are gathered
with the people of Abraham’s God
because the earth’s guardians belong to God;
God is exalted beyond all.
Prayer1
May God the Father, and the Eternal High Priest Jesus Christ, build us up in faith and truth and love, and grant to us our portion among the saints with all those who believe on our Lord Jesus Christ. We pray for all saints, for kings and rulers, for the enemies of the Cross of Christ, and for ourselves we pray that our fruit may abound and we may be made perfect in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen.
From Neely, Brent. The Book of Ancient Prayers: 365+ Prayers from the Saints of the Church (p. 336).