Dear Friends,

Have you ever felt frustrated because bullies never give it a rest? I have. It seemed as if I was continually being challenged into arguments. I knew they were trying to provoke me. I knew these bullies’ thoughts. Yet I kept focused on my Father and on my mission.

One time I was asked to choose between Caesar and my Father. Caesar was an authority, but my Father is the ultimate authority. There was no contest. My answer was “Give to Caesar what is his, but give to God what is God’s.”

My advice to you is: Know what the right thing is to do and do not be afraid to answer the truth to those who ask it of you.

Signed,

Your friend, Jesus

Matthew 22:15-21

Then the Pharisees went and plotted to trap him in what he said.  So they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are sincere, and teach the way of God in accordance with truth, and show deference to no one; for you do not regard people with partiality. Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to the emperor, or not?”  But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why are you putting me to the test, you hypocrites?  Show me the coin used for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius.  Then he said to them, “Whose head is this, and whose title?”  They answered, “The emperor’s.” Then he said to them, “Give therefore to the emperor the things that are the emperor’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

In my life…

Dear Jesus,

I believe that you will help me always to tell the truth and to do what is right. I will not be afraid to stand up for the truth and to answer with the right words if I am ever questioned. Help me to keep my spirits up and my heart peaceful and connected to you. You are my true friend! Amen.