The Pharisees…sent their disciples…saying, “Teacher, we know that You are truthful and teach the way of God in truth, and defer to no one; for You are not partial to any. Tell us then, what do You think? Is it lawful to give a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?” (Matthew 22:15–17 NAS95)
Jesus continually amazes me when I think of His freedom from the manipulations of men who represented power structures of this earth. In this case, leaders from both the religious and political arenas of Israel aspire to force Jesus to say something that could ensnare Him. Normally such an approach from those in power intimidates and provokes some anxiety in the person they confront. Their confession of Jesus’ character as they approach betrays truth rooted in His relationship to His Father. Sometimes I wonder what went on in Jesus’ interior in such situations? In those moments, I catch a glimmer of an interactive relationship, where Jesus anchors into His Father’s presence, relaxes, listens and sees from God’s perspective. Then the answer comes.
His opponents state to Jesus that He speaks truth, teaches the way of God, is not subject to manipulation or partial to any. If that doesn’t warm a person up to answer in accord with the inquirers wishes, I don’t know what will. They complement Jesus consistent with His actual character! Yet Jesus only pays attention to the audience of One. He knows His Father continues present to Him and with Him, so He remains totally safe and free. Free from the manipulations and power structures of men. Jesus does not need the accolades of the powerful or respectful, because He already has that from God. Wisdom that comes from this security of relationship with God flows from His lips. With the use of a coin, His reply leaves the opponents speechless with its profound simplicity: “You are God’s, return to Him” (Matt 22:21). Jesus invites us to the same kind of security built on communion with His Father.
For Reflection:
“In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety.” (Psalms 4:8 NAS95)
- What sorts of influences distract your heart from the security and love you have in Jesus?
- When have you ever felt the kind of threat Jesus felt? Can you recall what your interior experienced and how you responded?
