June 14, 2013

“‘Fishy’ Tribute”

Blessings Folk!

Today’s reading:

Matthew 17:24-27

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I wonder.

Did Peter lie?
Did he feel that he had to lie to protect Jesus?

I suspect so.

From the account we learn that Jesus had not paid the “tax of man”.
Yet Peter said He did.

Jesus knew what Peter had done.

When Peter came into the house, the Lord asked him a question.
Peter answered correctly.
Kings of the earth gather customs/poll tax from strangers, not from their sons.

The sons are exempt.
The sons are free.

(Our nation formerly was like this...no more.)

But, Jesus shows us something.
So that they would not cause offense they would pay the tribute.

The Lord would provide “supernaturally”.

He told Peter to go fishing...Peter’s former profession.
Look at the detail.
Go to the sea - salt water, not fresh.
Throw in a hook - not a net as Peter was accustomed.
Take the first fish - not the second, third, etc. The first.
Open its mouth.
A four drachma shekel would provide for Jesus and Peter.

Knowing God this way…
Why do we fret?
Why do we fear?
Why do we worry?

Do not.
Trust in the Lord.