Today's readings are remarkable! This is particularly true of the first reading and the Gospel. First reading (Isaiah 45:1,4-6): At this time in salvation history, by God's consequent will, Cyrus is the ruler of the earthly world. For the sake of his chosen people, Israel, the Lord reveals to Cyrus that He is the one, true, almighty God--the only God! Yet Cyrus is a pagan ruler! Two conclusions: 1) Our Lord is in control of the universe and all of human history, no matter how dark things may appear on the surface. He can use anyone to accomplish his plan. 2) The Lord's salvific love is universal. He loves Israel his chosen and the Gentiles as well (that's everyone). He desires that everyone be saved. Indeed, He died on the Cross for them.
The Gospel (Matthew 22:15-21): The Pharisees and the Herodians, who are usually at odds with each other, join forces in an attempt "to entrap Jesus in speech." Yet Jesus is much smarter than they and will not be trapped by their malicious devices. Oh, the majesty of the true King, the King of Kings, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, who--referring to the coin of the tribute--very calmly tells these plotters: "Whose image is this and whose inscription?" They reply, "Caesar's." Then Jesus says to them: "Then render unto Caesar what belongs to Caesar, but render unto God what belongs to God." And what it that above all belongs to God? Man, human beings, people--you and I! John Paul the Great made this point many times during his pontificate. Jesus is indubitably concerned for us, for our real happiness, that is, our salvation, our ultimate union with our true Lover--Jesus Himself, the eternal God, trinity in unity. Praised be Jesus Christ, now and forever!
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