²⁴When they reached Capernaum, the collectors of the temple tax came to Peter and said, “Does your teacher not pay the temple tax?” ²⁵He said, “Yes, he does.” And when he came home, Jesus spoke of it first, asking, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their children or from others?” ²⁶When Peter said, “From others,” Jesus said to him, “Then the children are free. ²⁷However, so that we do not give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook; take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me.”  Matthew 17:24-27

This is one of those unusual stories in the gospel and yet there is an important message.  While I do not expect God to pay my taxes, we can depend on Jesus to meet our needs.  Deep down, people have a desire to be loved and accepted.  Jesus meets this need.  Read the gospels and you will see how time and again Jesus meets the needs of those around him, whether it’s physical healing, spiritual healing, acceptance or love.

Do you have a need?  Take it to the Lord.  Do you know someone who might need some healing or acceptance?  Be Jesus for them.

Peace,

Pastor Bill