Where Is The Shekel? Part 1

I've read the "Shekel in the Fish" story from Matthew 17 before, but recently it hit differently.

In past readings, it just felt like an interesting story to show Jesus' powers, yet this week, I saw more depth.

If it's been awhile since you read the story, here's a summary:

A tax collector approaches Peter and says, essentially, “Hey, you and your Teacher haven’t paid the temple tax.”

Peter doesn’t have the money. So he goes to Jesus, probably embarrassed, nervous, and unsure of what to do next.

Jesus could have solved the problem instantly.

He could have reached into His pocket and pulled out a coin miraculously.

He could have made a shekel appear on the table.

Or not even perform a miracle, and just have Judas grab a shekel from the money bag.

But He didn’t.

Instead, Jesus turns to Peter and gives a strange command:

"go to the sea and cast a hook and take the first fish that comes up, and when you open its mouth you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for me and for yourself." - Matthew 17:27

Here's what stood out to me this week:

This wasn’t a miracle for the crowds.

This wasn’t a show.

I don't even know who was around.

So this was a private moment of formation - Jesus investing in Peter’s faith.

And what stands out isn’t the miracle (yes, that's pretty cool to have a coin show up in a fish's mouth), but it's what was required of Peter.

Peter had to leave the house.

Walk down to the water.

Get out a fishing pole and line.

Do the work of fishing.

All while, wondering if this was a huge waste of time.

Could God have provided instantly? Of course.

But more often than not, God asks us to move first.

Because movement grows faith.

Hebrews reminds us, “Without faith it is impossible to please God.”

And faith isn’t proven sitting still. Faith is proven when we grab the fishing pole and walk toward the water, even when the command makes no sense.

So here’s the question for you today:

Where is God asking you to go to find the “shekel”?

• Is it having a hard conversation?

• Making the call to the prospect who keeps saying no?

• Posting the blog you’ve been afraid to share?

• Initiating reconciliation?

• Asking for help?

• Submitting the application?

• Setting the boundary?

Don’t just pray for provision.

Ask Him, “Lord, where is the shekel?”

And then, take the step toward the water.

Let me know your thoughts on this blog and share with me...where is your shekel?

What's next?

Have you heard my newest keynote?!

After months of working with a speech coach, I have a new keynote, and I'd love to share it with your team.

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Thanks for reading and sharing with others!

-Cory

www.corymcarlson.com

www.rise-community.com