They were utterly amazed at him 

“‘Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.’ They were utterly amazed at him.” (MK 12: 17) 

This story starts with the information that “some Pharisees and Herodians were sent to Jesus to ensnare him in his speech.” This time it was about paying taxes. Jesus’ answer amazed them. Our Lord always respects us, and He answers us seriously even if our questions are not based on our good will. He came to “enlighten the eyes of our hearts, that we may know what is the hope that belongs to his call.” 

“May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts, that we may know what is the hope that belongs to his call.” (Gospel Acclamation)