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Jesus and a coin. Render to Cesar what is Ceasar's, and unto God what is God's.
 
In this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus asks, "Whose image is on the coin?" The answer is Caesar's. But the deeper question is: Whose image is on us? Scripture tells us that we are created in the image and likeness of God. If the coin belongs to Caesar because it bears his image, then we belong to God because we bear His image. The greatest gift we can offer God is not something we possess. It is ourselves.
 
So, let us "Render to God what belongs to God." (Matthew 22:21)
 
Heavenly Father, you created us in Your image and redeemed us through Your Son. Help us to remember that we belong to You. Give us hearts that trust You, hands that serve You, and lives that reflect Your love. When we are tempted by fear, anger, or selfishness, draw us back to Your grace. Like the child who stepped into the offering plate, may we offer You our greatest gift: ourselves. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Gospel This Week:  Matthew 22:15-21
Image: “Give Unto Caesar,” Lifeway Collection. Licensed through GoodSalt.com
Margin Image: Licensed through GoodSalt.com