The Gospel reading focuses on the conversation between the tax collector and Peter (24-25a) and between Jesus and Peter (v.25-27). Firstly, the half-shekel tax was paid annually by all adult males between 20-50 years of age in support of the Temple and its services (Ex.30:11-16). In Jesus' time, some priests argued that they were free from tax while the monks of Qumran wanted to pay only once in their life-time. It is in this context that some tax collectors approached Peter and asked if Jesus paid the Temple tax. Then Jesus confronted Peter with the parable (vs.25-26) on the liability of the sons of earthly kings. From this it was concluded that Jesus, the son of God was not obliged to pay taxes for God's temple. However in order to avoid 'causing offence' to the Romans, he took the shekel in the fish's mouth to pay the tax for both of them.

Today we, as citizens of our country, we are obliged to pay tax too. As a member of the local church, we are obliged to support our church in whatever ways we can. We are responsible for the maintenance and growth of our Christian community or BECs.

In today's first reading, we are reminded of our responsibility towards those around us who are in need of our help. This is referred to as 'circumcision of the heart' and in obedience to God's commandments. We know and believe that it is "Yahweh who sees justice..."