Dt. 10:12-22 | Ps. 147:12-15, 19-20 | Mt. 17:22-27

God is asking the Jewish people to be faithful to practicing the commandments.  God asks them to do so because they love God and want to show that love by acting as they should.  God continues to keep the covenant with Israel, so Israel is asked to likewise keep the covenant.  The apostles are asked if they pay the temple tax.  Jesus’ response is to ask a question: “From whom do the kings of the earth take tolls or taxes?  From their subjects or foreigners?”   We need to understand this from the culture in which this event took place.  Today, we know that both foreigners and subjects pay taxes.  The point is that, if one is a member of God’s kingdom, then we will receive the gifts and graces of that kingdom without having to pay taxes.  Jesus wants us to follow Him with joy, love, peace, and not out of fear.  God is more concerned about our disposition than with what we pay.

Consider the readings.  Do you follow God’s call out of love?  If not, what can you do to have a change of heart?  Ask God to increase your love.