Investing in our Future

THIS WEEK’S GOSPEL: MATTHEW 22:15-22 (MESSAGE)

That's when the Pharisees plotted a way to trap him into saying something damaging. They sent their disciples, with a few of Herod's followers mixed in, to ask, "Teacher, we know you have integrity, teach the way of God accurately, are indifferent to popular opinion, and don't pander to your students. So tell us honestly: Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?"

Jesus knew they were up to no good. He said, "Why are you playing these games with me? Why are you trying to trap me? Do you have a coin? Let me see it." They handed him a silver piece. 

"This engraving—who does it look like? And whose name is on it?"  They said, "Caesar."  "Then give Caesar what is his, and give God what is his." The Pharisees were speechless. They went off shaking their heads.

Although Jesus once again cleverly avoids the trap the religious leaders have set for him, he asks us to consider two profound questions:  In our lives, what belongs to the world?  In our lives, what belongs to God?  How do we understand these questions in our everyday lives and routines?  Is there anything in our lives that is completely set apart for God, to honor God and to celebrate God’s presence and action in our lives?  Do we notice God’s presence in our lives each day and offer praise and gratitude?  Do we express our awe and appreciation at the changing of the seasons, the gift of laughter and friendship, or even the simple gift of a new day each morning?  Or are we driven by our schedules, responsibilities, success and competition?  Do we find ourselves responding to the demands of our world or by the gifts of God?

Join us this Sunday, October 16 at 10:00a.m. in Christ Church as we move into a season where we are made aware of what belongs to the world and what belongs to God even as we are called to be good stewards of both. This Sunday we will do this by exploring what it means to be a Christian in today’s world called to share our time, our resources, our energy and, yes, our money with others. It is a good day to be in Church.