Many of us long for a new heaven and a new earth, especially when faced with the negativity and suffering in the world. The author of the first reading anticipates a time when everything will be dissolved and the world will be re-created for a fresh start. But in the meantime, we must conduct our lives as if it has already happened. A godly life in loving service to humanity is a sign of hope and an assurance that the world is on a journey towards God. Each day we must choose to continue to be this sign.

The trick question posed to Jesus is designed to trip him up. Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor? If he says yes, he is a traitor. If he says no, then he is a rebel. It seems like a no-win situation. But looking at the image of the emperor on the coin, he simply says to give the emperor everything that is rightfully his. If we follow Mark's theology closely, Jesus is proclaiming the Reign of God. That means the emperor gets absolutely nothing! Everything - the entire earth - belongs to God alone. All that we have is gift. The challenge for us, then, is to be less possessive, recognizing that everything is gift and meant to be shared. Let us love the Lord our God with all our heart, mind, and strength. God alone rules the world.