Some Pharisees and Herodians were sent
to Jesus to ensnare him in his speech.

Mark 12:13

Mark 12:13-17

Reflection

The Pharisees attempt to snare Jesus in his speech by asking him if it is lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar. Jesus asks why they are testing him, and tells them to bring him a coin that shows Caesar’s image. He proceeds to declare that they should repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.

The Pharisees are purposely trying to trap Jesus in his speech, with the ultimate goal of having him arrested. In today’s society, we might encounter similar situations where a part of our Christian faith is used to ‘trap’ us in one way or another against society’s standards.

Yet we have Christ on our side. He is Truth, and the truth will always prevail. In debates and quarrels about doctrine or a particular devotion, we can rely on the Holy Spirit to speak through us and reveal the truth. When you are faced with a tough question about your faith or don’t have the words to explain it, call upon our Lord. He will guide you to himself, the Truth.

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Saint of the Day

Sts. Marcellinus and Peter: died AD 304

Not much is known about these two saints listed in the Eucharistic Prayer I. However, we do known St. Marcellinus was a priest and St. Peter was an exorcist. They were martyred for their faith during the Diocletian persecutions. Sts. Marcellinus and Peter, pray for us!