Shipley Church Self-Service

Sunday 18th October 2020

Thought for the Week – Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s

There was a deliberate plot made against Jesus in the gospel, today. Two groups of people with different opinions – one opposed to the rule of Rome, and the other supporting it – tried to trick him by forcing him to reply to their question whether or not they should pay taxes to Caesar. (Matthew 22: 15-21) The point, here, is to distinguish what belongs to the Emperor and what belongs to God? Jesus’ reply made clear that if we give only to Caesar and not to God, we shall forfeit our promise of eternal life. Clearly, it is desirable and our obligation to submit to earthly authority – for we pray for our earthly leaders; we practice civil obedience (especially because of the current pandemic); and we participate in public life.

But it is our principal duty also to give to God what is his, and to offer ourselves unto him. He, after all, created us in his own image, died for us, saved us from sin and yet, as we believe, now lives, bringing love into a world without end. How amazing is that? (Romans 6:13) 

Hymn for Today

1. The kingdom of God 

Is justice and joy, 

For Jesus restores 

What sin would destroy; 

God’s power and glory 

In Jesus we know, 

And here and hereafter 

The kingdom shall grow. 

2. The kingdom of God

Is mercy and grace,

The captives are freed,

The sinners find place,

The outcasts are welcomed,

God’s banquet to share,

And hope is awakened

In place of despair.

Prayers

We pray for our leaders that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.

Note: The Gospel and Readings set for the Feast of St. Luke can be downloaded from the top right of this page.