God’s Handiwork

“Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God the things that are God’s.” Matthew 22:21

In today’s reading, Jesus was asked by the Pharisees whether it was lawful to pay tax to the Emperor. Jesus, who knew that in their hearts, they were just trying to trap him, answered, “Whose head is on the coin?” “Caesar’s,” they replied.

“Then give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, but give to God what is God’s.” 

When we were young, we did a lot of bartering and exchanging. We did not have many store bought toys, and usually made our own with catalogs, paper, pens, glue, scissors, and cardboard boxes. One time Peggy and I drew paper dolls. Meldy wanted to play with us, but as she was too young, she had to give most of her toys to Peggy in exchange for one paper doll. Looking back, we would say “Grabe ka naman, Peggy! Kawawa naman si Meldy!” (Too much, Peggy! Poor Meldy!”) And Peggy would answer that she had a hard time making the paper doll. Those paper dolls were her handiwork, and she could ask whatever price she wanted and it was up to Meldy to consider if it was worth it or not. 

Just as the coin reflected Caesar’s image, we were created to reflect God’s glory. We are God’s handiwork, made in His image and likeness (Genesis 1:27), much more precious than any gold coin or treasure on earth. Is it not that He can demand we live by His rules, His design? Our life and breath are His. We can reject Him but He also decrees the consequences. 

What are we, Lord, but mere vassals, clay pots You have deemed worthy of Your attention. Help us to rise up from the mud, attire ourselves in Your righteousness, to belong to You forever.