The Children are Free

As they were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands, and they will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised.” And they were greatly distressed. When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax came to Peter and said, “Does your teacher not pay the temple tax?” He said, “Yes, he does.” And when he came home, Jesus spoke of it first, asking, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their children or from others?” When Peter said, “From others,” Jesus said to him, “Then the children are free. However, so that we do not give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook; take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me.” Matthew 17:22-27


The Children Are Free

Taxes and tariffs burden the poor
while the rich little children
dance on the floors others cleaned
they eat meals others have cooked
paying no mind to those who serve.

Grace abounds for the least
despite the weight of their work
God draws the harrassed close
shelters the broken ones
seeking out the least of us.

There was a fish with a coin
bursting from its mouth for Peter
for us today if we would be
there are communities ready
arms open wide to embrace.

Can you hear the calling voice
crying still in the dark night
there is abundance if we share
comfort if we embrace
freedom is we unlocks the gates.