https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/081224.cfm
“THAT WE MIGHT NOT OFFEND THEM.”
I can’t criticize or judge people until I walk in their shoes and experience all they experience. In his goodness, God has allowed me to meet people who are lax in practicing their faith for one reason or another. I learned early on in my priesthood that telling people what they need to do isn’t enough. It just turns them off from the Church.
When I meet a married couple who wants to get married in the Church or have their child baptized, I get to know them first. I learn about them, and they learn about me. Then, I listen as they share their life experiences. From those experiences, I point out how wise and healthy the teachings of the gospel and the Church can benefit their family life.
It is all the grace of God, and it is beautiful to behold and watch the faith they received in baptism come to life. So, in today’s gospel, Jesus brought Peter’s faith to life. The Temple tax collectors asked Peter if Jesus paid the temple tax. Jesus reminded Peter, “Children of the King do not pay taxes. Only subjects do.”
So as not to offend his questioner, Jesus told Peter to go fishing without bait. The first fish he caught would have a coin in its mouth to pay the temple tax for Jesus and Peter. Up to this point, Jesus did not trust the temple tax collectors. Because Jesus respected their relationship and wanted to keep it growing, He paid the temple tax, working a little miracle.
Gospel Challenge:
Remember, people come first before stuff. We don’t want to win arguments and lose people. Perhaps you know someone who is not practicing their Catholic faith. Ask the Lord to give you opportunities to get to know them. When trust builds between you and them, Jesus will start working on all the Lord’s miracles, and you will catch more than fish.
Love Your Neighbor!
Father Rick Pilger, I.C.
pastor@bsccchurch.com
