On the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time, in the 1st reading (Isaiah 45:1, 4-6), the Lord very firmly and clearly tells us, "I am the Lord God and there is no other, there is no God besides me." This was very different and unique in the days of Isaiah because at that time other peoples (non-Jews) worshipped many different gods (pagan false gods).

This leads us directly into the Gospel (Matthew 22:15-21) where the Pharisees and Herodians try to trap Jesus by asking Him, "Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not?" In other words, they wanted to know where the allegiance of Jesus stood. Was it with Caesar (only a man) but who was considered a God by some or was it with the Lord God of Heaven and Earth, the One True God?

Jesus, knowing their malice and intentions, gave His famous answer, "Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God."  

The readings and message this week help us to discern where our allegiance lies. Yes we are to adhere to and obey civil laws and civil authorities but they are not God. Nothing in this world is above God. Our ultimate allegiance must be to the Lord God, our Lord Jesus Christ, King of all kings and Lord over all lords.

Not just by words alone but by action. Our lives must be a living proof that we truly believe what the Lord very firmly and clearly said through Isaiah, "I am the Lord God, there is no other."