The scribes and the chief priests tried to lay hands on him at that very hour, but they feared the people; for they perceived that he had told this parable against them. 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.
-Luke 20:19-26 RSV
The City of God
Today’s scripture touches on the often-described tension between Jesus and those in authority. The scribes and priests aren’t as concerned about learning the way of God as they are about making sure they remain in power and influence over society. They are threatened by Jesus’ teachings that it is God who rules over all.
While the scribes and priests ask Jesus if God’s law or Caesar’s law (the governmental rules of the day) is to be followed, the truth is that God’s law and the government share many of the same goals and don’t have to exist in conflict with each other. Government services – roads, trash pick-up, water service, fire protection – keep us safe and healthy while criminal laws protect us from harm. At their best, government laws can promote equal justice for all, especially the vulnerable and defenseless, and maintain order in society. So, too, does God’s law insist on the never-ending pursuit of justice and peace. As Jesus points out, we all have a duty to submit to government authority but this can’t be – and doesn’t have to be - at the expense of our obligation to serve our God.
With constant news of violence, political strife, and economic turmoil, it’s often difficult to remember that God’s law calls us to strive for a society that is just and peaceful for all, one that is full of love and respect and one that doesn’t leave anyone out. The musical Godspell termed this society “a beautiful city” in the song of the same name. The song reminds us that even in hard times, we can start to build God’s beautiful city piece by piece, brick by brick, heart by heart. It doesn’t matter where we start, as long as we have faith in God’s vision for our future, and take the necessary steps to make it a reality.
This Advent, may we anticipate not only Christ’s birth and second coming, but also God’s beautiful city. Let us pray with fervent hope about what we can do, individually and collectively, to build God’s beautiful city. As the song implores, “Yes, we can!”
The Rev. Lisa Chronister
Deacon
St. John’s Episcopal Church, OKC