And Jesus answering said to them, Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s. And they marveled at him. Mark 12:17
There is not much doubt that this is my least favorite week of the year. “Tax Time” doesn’t have much meaning to most Americans any more. Most folks have a money taken from their paycheck every month and early the next year they get some of it back. It seems like a gift from the government, even though it’s their money and maybe some of someone else’s money as well.
The income tax with holding system is the most sinister evil plot ever conceived by our government. It has convinced most of us that “tax time” is when the government gives us money. If you are one of those who is subject to withholding, it might be a good idea to compute not what you are “getting back” but what the government is keeping. Just a thought.
As our government gets more and more evil, it gets harder and harder for those of us who write a check each April to write that check. It’s without a doubt the largest check I write each year. Each year I am aware that much of the money is going to be put to uses that I don’t agree with and some I actually abhor.
All I can do is consider just how evil was the Roman government when Jesus said to “render to Caesar.” I guess the Romans would make our democrats and republicans today seem like nice guys. I know that is hard to believe, but it’s true.
I think the most important part of what Jesus was saying is often missed when this verse is considered. He reminds us to give God, His things. I don’t think this is as much a message about tithing or church support as it is a reminder that everything is God’s. Man may fool himself and governments may live in delusion about who owns what. But we know it all belongs to Him. We need to recognize that and trust that He will find a way to put His resources to best use.
Doesn’t make April 15 check writing any easier.
Be blessed.
Nick
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