Reflection

Even Jesus had to face the question of religion and state. Taxes were a fact of life and at times caused the Jews some moral as well as social concerns. But Jesus was not drawn into it. His answer to give God what is God's and Caesar what is Caesar's sidesteps the dispute and puts things into perspective. The real power of both religion and state is seen when each fulfills its proper role in sustaining and supporting the dignity of every person, a way in which each can be judged as moral and good.

 

     Faith trumps all we are and all we do and all we have. Both church and state can benefit from working together, but we can never compromise our core beliefs and values. Regardless of what the state deems legal and right, the Gospel is the final measure of what is moral and just. We answer to a higher authority than political leaders. Our faith must guide us in our political lives, choices and decisions.