CRAFTY QUESTIONS

“So they watched him, and sent spies, who pretended to be sincere, that they might take hold of what he said, so as to deliver him up to the authority and jurisdiction of the governor. They asked him, ‘Teacher, we know that you speak and teach rightly, and show no partiality, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful for us to give tribute to Caesar, or not?’ But he perceived their craftiness, and said to them, ‘Show me a coin. Whose likeness and inscription has it? They said, ‘Caesar’s.’ He said to them, ‘Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’ And they were not able in the presence of the people to catch him by what he said; but marveling at his answer they were silent.” (Lk 20: 20-26)

These are “crafty” questioners, who “watched” the Lord with no intention of really seeing Him. They love their own questions, and their “craftiness,” far more than the Truth, which is of no interest to them, even when it is staring them in the face.

How different they are from the two disciples of John, who “come and see” Jesus because they had a sincere question about Him (Jn 1: 35-41). It is by “coming” and “seeing” that they find The Answer to the big question-mark in their hearts, – and not by debating Him on some “crafty” issue.

I have many questions today, because I don’t know everything. But let me not let my questions blind me to Christ, Who offers me The Way through all the ambivalences and unanswered questions in my world. Lord, thank You for blessing this, yet another beautiful morning of the Nativity Fast, with Your Presence in our midst. And let me be present to You, in the patience, humility, and good cheer of the fasting season.