Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: August 14, 2023

Date in the Ordine: Memorial of St. Maximilian Kolbe

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 drawn from the Gospel of Matthew has two separate messages. The first section recounts Jesus’ second prediction of his death to his disciples. It is the shortest of his predictions with the least detail; however, the disciples “were overwhelmed with grief” which suggests that they took in Jesus’ message that they were to lose their teacher and Lord in such a horrible manner.

The second section concerns paying the temple tax which was levied on every adult Israelite to provide for the upkeep of the temple in Jerusalem. Note that the temple tax collectors did not ask Jesus but instead approached Peter. Jesus shows his awareness of the conversation when he asks Peter about who owes a tax, subjects or foreigners (note the Greek literally says “from their own children or strangers). Many scripture scholars believe that this text points to a later time when Christian Jews enter the temple of Jerusalem post resurrection.

How does this pertain to us today?

Even today we must consider the selfless sacrifice our savior, Jesus Christ, paid for our redemption. We need to spend time reflecting on it and allowing it to temper us. We also need to ask ourselves if we are “children of the LORD” or “strangers.” Do we spend time with the LORD or do we avoid the LORD?

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I meditate on the crucifix and allow Jesus’ sacrifice to penetrate my mind, my heart, my soul? Do I seek to live as a “child of the LORD” and a disciple of Christ or am I stranger who performs some of usual rituals but stay far enough removed that it won’t change me?

Praying:

LORD, We come to You this day, open to your unfathomable and transformative love. Guide us on our journey home to You. Amen.