Wednesday; April 15

I don’t know that Tax Day is as big of a deal as it used to be.  Most of us have figured out a way to prepay our taxes (and even use it as kind of a savings plan).  In fact, a lot of us don’t wait until the deadline to file so we can spend the money the government refunds to us.  Still, whether it when we glace at our paystub, see the bottom line on our Form 1040 or make that final payment for last year’s taxes; it can be disheartening how much we pay.  I remember in years past that about this time of year we needed hear Luke’s words, “And He said to them, ‘Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.’” (Luke 20:25).  Now, while this might help us deal with the amount of the withholding, I think there is something that might help us even more if we dig a bit further.  I am not going to get too deep into government taxation, but some of it is earmarked to help our fellow man.  Many of the social programs designed to help others who struggle to help themselves are funded by our tax dollars.  So, in other words, what we pay in taxes is a way to show our goodwill to those around us.  Admittedly, we may not do it completely voluntarily, but it can help us help others. 

After Jesus reminded His disciples of their need to fund Caesar’s efforts, the Apostle Paul challenged believers, “Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.” (Romans 13:8).  What could happen to our attitudes about taxes if we viewed it as a way to show our love for others?  It may not take away all the pain from our tax bill, but it might make us feel a bit less irritable by knowing that our friends and neighbors might be able to sleep safer and eat better through our donations.

Think About It!