In his clipped response to the local politicians, recounted in today’s Gospel, Jesus defines the attitude that should motivate everyone. We are destined by God, who created us, to put him first in making choices. At the same time, we live in nations, and therefore we have the obligation to support our given nation.
The psalm in our Mass puts the same teaching in a different way: “Give the Lord glory and honor” and: “Tell his glory among the nations, among all peoples his wonderous deeds.” How do we do that if we are not people, citizens of nations?
When we pray, we unite ourselves not with God alone, but with all our brothers and sisters, who are citizens of political societies. We give thanks to God if those societies governed by Caesars who are just and we pray for people governed by “things of naught”. This unity is especially needed today.
As Americans approaching voting booths, we should be particularly grateful for the principles upon which our nation was built; yet aware that never in history have they been so challenged.
Resolved: I shall double the time spent watching newscasts, reading articles and discussing political matters in praying for my country, especially for who govern and protect it, for my fellow countrymen, who are homeless, living lives without hope; for those captivated by woke culture, and for my brothers and sisters who live under oppressive, godless governments.