WE ARE STAMPED IN HIS IMAGE
The simplicity of a true and loving heart leads us to holiness of life. God calls us to live just lives, for we are stamped in His Image!
The purpose of an encounter between the Pharisees, Herodians, and Jesus is not to engage in open conversation over the matter of the Law. They posed a dilemma to test Jesus to see if He would make a statement they could use against Him. But Jesus is a master at getting out of these situations and then turning the tables on His questioners! If Jesus says that one does not have to pay the census tax, He breaks the civil law. If He says that the census tax should be paid, He breaks the religious law. Jesus chooses neither of these options. Instead, He has them produce a secular coin, which they should not have had in their possession since it had the inscription of Caesar on it. Jesus draws their attention to this image and simply says, "Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God" (Mk 12:17). They are amazed, but they do not fully comprehend Jesus' response. He set the stage for them to realize that everything belongs to our heavenly Father, and nothing to Caesar.
The story in we read in Mark's Gospel truly has a deeper meaning as well. We, too, have been stamped with God's Image, for we were created in His own Image and Likeness. We rightfully belong, not to ourselves, but to God, Who created us and redeemed us through Christ Jesus His Son.
In the Responsorial Psalm we acclaim, "The heart of the just one is firm, trusting in the Lord" (Ps 112:7c). Our God lavishly gives to us and His generosity shall endure always. It should bring us joy if we keep His Law and reflect His compassion to help those in most need. Use common sense, which holds its own in the spiritual life! The simplicity of a true and loving heart leads us to holiness of life. God calls us to live just lives, for we are stamped in His Image!
Give to God what rightfully belongs to Him!