Taxed

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 offence to them, go to the lake 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

Noone really likes paying taxes. Yet, this time of year, especially in this time, we are reminded how blessed we all are and how others need our help. Our federal, state and local taxes help folks to be housed, educated and safe. Our pledges and our tithes help our church communities thrive and care for the needs of others. Jesus sent Peter fishing so that the temple tax would be paid. We are sent out to find the blessings and miracles, so we might share the miracles and blessings.

Loving Creator, source of all life

you provide in abundance for all

filling streams and oceans with fish

and filling fields with good food.

When the years are lean we blame you

yet when the harvest is plentiful we do not

we take pride in our accomplishments

and forget the needs of our neighbors.

Help us to be grateful and generous

let us offer hat we have for the world

may we share the blessings and miracles

so the world might know your love here. Amen.