October 18th, 2026 21st Sunday after Pentecost

Sunday, October 18, 2026
Twenty-First Sunday after Pentecost | Year A

Focus Theme:
Whose Head

Focus Prayer:
Teacher, let us bring our questions to you with curiosity and openness rather than challenge and malice. Amen.

Focus Scripture:
Matthew 22:15-22
15 Then the Pharisees went and plotted to entrap him in what he said. 16 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. 17 Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” 18 But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why are you putting me to the test, you hypocrites? 19 Show me the coin used for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius. 20 Then he said to them, “Whose head is this and whose title?” 21 They answered, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Give therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.” 22 When they heard this, they were amazed, and they left him and went away.

All readings for this Sunday:
Exodus 33:12-23 and Psalm 99 •Isaiah 45:1-7 and Psalm 96:1-9, (10-13) •1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 •Matthew 22:15-22

Focus Questions:
What is allegiance?
How do we determine our loyalties?
What do we do when our loyalties are in conflict?
What is your most prioritized allegiance?
How does allegiance to church and state present conflict? How do you resolve it?