Gospel: Mark 12: 13-17
Two rival factions conspire in an attempt to trap Jesus with a question on paying taxes. Both groups use religion to to justify their political positions but arrive at opposite conclusions. Each group seeks to gain the support of Jesus and his followers, though such a choice would lead to dire consequences in opposition from the rival party. Such a trap is set in every time and place for followers of Jesus...
Jesus is rather indifferent to the question. His answer is enigmatic: each party can find it both as an endorsement and a rebuke to their position. But Jesus' answer cannot be comprehended by either group using their dualistic categories. For they only see two possible postures before the state: total acceptance or total opposition. In a culture where religion was the embodiment of the state this thinking is understandable. But Jesus is providing a third alternative.
The Church does not exist to serve the state, nor does it exist as a perpetual revolutionary movement. The Church exists to be the Church, the sacrament of salvation offering mercy to all people of all times and places. It serves as the place of discernment, reflection, and dialogue for people to make decisions on how to extend mercy in practical ways to all. It is neither the anointer of realms and leaders nor arms dealer to rebels. To be the Church, to be Christ on earth is to stand up for the life and dignity of all, not just a few based on acquiescing to a political faction. The test Jesus faces today is ours in every time and place.
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