TODAY’S GOSPEL READING
11 AUGUST, 2025
Matthew 17:22-27
When they came together in Galilee, he said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and on the third day he will be raised to life.” And the disciples were filled with grief.
After Jesus and his disciples arrived in Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma temple tax came to Peter and asked, “Doesn’t your teacher pay the temple tax?” “Yes, he does,” he replied. When Peter came into the house,
Jesus was the first to speak. “What do you think, Simon?” he asked. “From whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes—from their own children or from others?” “From others,” Peter answered. “Then the children are exempt,” Jesus said to him. “But so that we may not cause offense, go to the lake and throw out your line.
Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.”
THE GOSPEL OF THE LORD!
REFLECTION
In this passage, Jesus reminds His disciples of the reality of His coming passion, death, and resurrection—a truth that fills them with sorrow, as they cannot yet comprehend the glory beyond the suffering. Immediately after, He addresses a practical matter: paying the temple tax. Although He, as the Son of God, is not obligated, He chooses to pay it to avoid unnecessary conflict. This reveals His humility, wisdom, and commitment to peace. Jesus teaches us that while we have the freedom of God’s children, we are also called to live with consideration for others, avoiding stumbling blocks and showing respect, even in matters where we may be rightfully exempt.
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, You embraced the path of suffering with courage and humility, trusting the Father’s plan. Teach me to face trials with the same faith, remembering that beyond the cross lies resurrection. Give me a heart of humility that values peace over pride and seeks harmony over argument. Help me to live as a child of God—free in spirit, yet willing to serve for the sake of love. Amen
