"This reply took them completely by surprise." (Mk.12:17) The reaction of the Pharisees and Herodians to Jesus' response is a point for reflection. What did they expect Jesus' answer to be?

Jesus' interlocutors intend to corner Him with this "catch 22" question pertaining to the contentious issue of paying taxes to the Roman empire. A "yes" would brand Jesus as a traitor to the Jewish people. A "no" would make Him a public enemy of the state. Faced with this seemingly no-win situation, Jesus' shrewd answer stupefies the trap setters. But more than a clever comeback, Jesus invites His opposers to reflect on their need for conversion and thus, salvation. He gives alternative viewpoints and helps them see things through the eyes of God.

The Jews must recognize legitimate earthly authority of the Roman empire. And more importantly, pledge full allegiance to divine authority Who provides for their material and spiritual needs. If the face on the coin denotes its owner, then every human face denotes its creator, who is none other than God Who created humanity in His image and likeness (Gen.1:27)

Does God surprise us when He answers our prayers? Why are we surprised? What answer did we expect? Let us welcome the gift of God's viewpoint when He surprises with His answer. In so doing, we give back to God what truly belongs to God.