Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: August 11, 2025

Date: Monday of the 19^th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Matthew 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."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

Today’s gospel reading begins with the second of three predictions by Jesus of His upcoming arrest, death and resurrection. The disciples’ response of grief is understandable.

Then the gospel reading deals with “the temple tax” – a tax paid by every adult Jewish male for the upkeep of the temple. While Jesus argues that He and Peter should not be expected to pay a tax as “sons”, Jesus miraculously provides the tax.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

What is my response when I consider what Christ gave physically and spiritually for my salvation?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, Son of God, our savior, we lift our minds and hearts to You this day in thanksgiving for your sacrifice for our redemption and lives. Send the Spirit to strengthen our resolve to follow You this day and all days. Amen.