Daily Readings - Tue Jun 06 2023
Mark
13Later they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to Jesus to catch him in his words.14They came to him and said, "Teacher, we know you are a man of integrity. You aren't swayed by men, because you pay no attention to who they are; but you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?15Should we pay or shouldn't we?"16But Jesus knew their hypocrisy. "Why are you trying to trap me?" he asked. "Bring me a denarius and let me look at it." They brought the coin, and he asked them, "Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?Caesar's," they replied.17Then Jesus said to them, "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's." And they were amazed at him.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound lessons on faith and integrity. The first reading from Tobit portrays a man of unwavering faith despite suffering. Tobit, though afflicted with blindness and faced with his wife's doubt, remains steadfast in his devotion to God, exemplifying patience and trust. His story reminds us that true faith endures even in the darkest times, teaching us to maintain our commitment to God amidst life's challenges.
The Gospel from Mark presents Jesus being tested by the Pharisees regarding taxes. Jesus' response, "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's," highlights the balance between earthly responsibilities and spiritual duties. This wisdom encourages us to fulfill our obligations in the world while keeping our focus on divine priorities.
Both readings connect through their emphasis on faith and integrity. Tobit's patience and Jesus' wisdom show us how to navigate life's difficulties with trust in God. Applying this to our lives, we are called to remain faithful during hardships and to act with honesty in all aspects of life, whether spiritual or worldly. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God and live with integrity, ensuring our actions reflect both our earthly duties and our spiritual devotion.