Today’s Gospel reading contains one of the most famous sayings of Jesus. In fact, even people who are mostly unfamiliar with the Scriptures could probably finish this quote: “Repay to Caesar…” The answer, of course is, “what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” In the final analysis, it ALL belongs to God!
In the first reading from 2 Peter 3, St. Peter says we should “be eager to be found without spot or blemish before him, at peace.” He then goes on. “Since you are forewarned, be on your guard not to be led into the error of the unprincipled and fall from your own stability. But grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.”
“The error of the unprincipled.” Different people have different principles. So do we know if we are falling into the error of the unprincipled, as St. Peter says? Two thoughts… First, from where do we get our principles? The answer must be the Church. Christ has given her authority to guide us on the path to holiness and heaven. Second, the magisterium of Holy Mother Church cannot teach error in matters of faith and morals. Christ promised that the Spirit would guide Her to all truth. So, when our principles are that of the Church, we will not be led into error. Unfortunately, the unprincipled (read: the world) has a big voice, and many are following it. How do we avoid error? St. Peter says it well – “grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ.”
Father, help us to be eager to be found without spot or blemish. May we grow in grace and knowledge of Christ Jesus and follow the path of holiness you call us to. Amen.
0 comments