Paying Taxes to Caesar

I’ve been reading through the events that took place before the crucifixion of Jesus as part of preparing my heart and mind for Easter. Yesterday was tax day for me and when I was informed of the amount we would need to pay the message of paying taxes to Caesar came to mind.

Many times tax collectors are mentioned in the bible. Jesus spent time with them and ate with them. Matthew, one of the twelve apostles, was previously a tax collector and Zacchaeus was another one that was transformed by a relationship with Jesus.

In Matthew 17: 24-27, Jesus performs a miracle in providing the temple tax for Peter and Himself through a fish. Often Jesus would tell the chief priests and elders, “I tell you the truth, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.” (Matthew 21: 31-32)

Personally, I really like my tax adviser. He is knowledgeable, helpful and does a great job. He asked me if the outcome was what I expected and it was. There was no need to be angry, it’s just part of living in a free country and I need to pay my share. My heart went out to my tax adviser who mentioned that he hears both sides of the political issues all day long as clients are either excited about a refund or angry about a payment due. He is just doing his job. I noticed how Jesus simply said, “Then give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” (Luke 20:25) That was it, pay the tax and move on to the things of God.

I like The Passion Translations description, “Jesus said, “Precisely. The coin bears the image of the Emperor Caesar, and you should give back to Caesar all that belongs to him. But you bear the image of God. So give back to God all that belongs to him.”

We are image bearers of God, isn’t that incredible! And we get the opportunity to give back to Him.

Thinking of the comments of Jesus concerning taxes, I was reminded that He is my provider. He has given us the health and strength to work, good jobs and opportunities to try new things like flip houses which my husband has always dreamed about doing. In doing those things He has also provided the money for the taxes.

In Luke 15:1 it says,” Now the tax collectors and sinners were all gathering around to hear Jesus.” That’s what I want to do. Render to Caesar what is Caesar’s and then gather around to hear Jesus.

My Prayer

Father, thank you for the opportunity that I have to live in a free country where I can use the gifts and talents You have given me. Thank you for Your generous provision in my life and help me to obey the laws of the land and most importantly to remember that I bear the image of God, I belong to You. Help me to live for You in all that I do. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Where does my help come from?

Luke 20:25 – The Passion Translation

“Jesus said, “Precisely. The coin bears the image of the Emperor Caesar, and you should give back to Caesar all that belongs to him. But you bear the image of God. So give back to God all that belongs to him.”