Gospel

Mt 17:22-27

As Jesus and his disciples were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, "The Son of Man is to be handed over to men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day." And they were overwhelmed with grief. When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax approached Peter and said, "Does not your teacher pay the temple tax?" "Yes," he said. When he came into the house, before he had time to speak, Jesus asked him, "What is your opinion, Simon? From whom do the kings of the earth take tolls or census tax from their subjects or from foreigners?" When he said, "From foreigners," Jesus said to him, "Then the subjects are exempt. 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."

Sermon

My brothers and sisters in Christ, today’s Gospel reading presents us with two important teachings from Jesus.

Firstly, Jesus predicts his passion and death, and the disciples are overwhelmed with grief. This shows us that Jesus is aware of the cost of his mission, and he is willing to pay it.

Secondly, Jesus teaches us about faith and obedience through the story of the temple tax. He shows us that as children of God, we are exempt from the burdens of the world, but we must also be mindful of the world around us and not offend others.

This passage teaches us:

1. The importance of faith and trust in God's plan, even when we don't understand it.

2. The need to be mindful of the world around us and to live in harmony with others.

3. The power of obedience to God's will, even in small things.

May we, like the disciples, be willing to follow Jesus, even when the road ahead is uncertain. May we trust in God's plan and obey his will, knowing that he will provide for us.

Prayer

Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Almighty, merciful and loving God,

We come to you with hearts full of trust and obedience. Help us to follow Jesus, even when the road ahead is uncertain.

May we have faith in your plan, even when we don't understand it. May we obey your will, knowing that you will provide for us.

May we be mindful of the world around us and live in harmony with others. May we not offend others, but rather be a light in the darkness.

Thank you for the example of Jesus, who was willing to pay the cost of his mission. May we be willing to follow him, wherever he leads us.

In Jesus' most holy name we pray, Amen.

+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ