WWJD …in such taxing times?
Well, here we are again. April 15th is just around the corner. I will be like most of you this weekend, scrambling to get our taxes in before the deadline. I know some people who do not take paying their taxes seriously. In fact, some don’t even pay for years. But like so many other things, such behavior will certainly catch up with you sooner or later.
None of us like paying taxes. But if you are one of those people that taxes is like a thorn in your side, count your blessings that you do not live in places like Sweden or France. I heard on the radio this morning that they are taxed at nearly 50%! It is said that we, here in the good ole US of A, are taxed at a low rate of 29%! That is quite the deal compared to some other countries. It is all in how we look at things.
Our perspective can alter things. Look at the story in the Bible that talks about taxes…
Jesus and his followers went to Capernaum. In Capernaum some men came to Peter. They were the men that collected the two-drachma tax. They asked, “Does your teacher pay the two-drachma tax?” Peter answered, “Yes, Jesus pays the tax.” Peter went into the house where Jesus was. Before Peter could speak, Jesus said to him, “The kings on the earth get different kinds of taxes from people. But who are the people that pay the taxes? Are these people the king’s children? Or is it other people that pay the taxes? What do you think?” Peter answered, “The other people pay the taxes.” Jesus said, “Then the children of the king don’t have to pay taxes. But we don’t want to make these tax collectors angry. So {pay the tax in this way}: Go to the lake and fish. After you catch the first fish, open the fish’s mouth. Inside its mouth you will find a four-drachma coin. Take that coin and give it to the tax collectors. That will pay the tax for you and me.” – MATTHEW 17:24-27
I don’t know about you, but after reading this account in the Bible, my perspective certainly changes when it comes to paying taxes. Even Jesus paid taxes! Just another example of how He came to earth to show us the example of how to live a life that exemplifies a godly character.
You see, we should all pay our taxes first of all because it is the law. Secondly, because it is God’s law but thirdly because it is a good witness to those around us. What an awesome reminder today that we do live in an earthly world, with earthly obligations and earthly influences but our values must be displayed in such a way that the world can see Jesus. We cannot influence people to come to Christ if they do not respect our desire to be people of godly integrity and character.
So WWJD on April 15th? Pay His taxes, of course.
Paying taxes…What is your perspective?
Good post.
I am glad that I am not the only one who has not finished the tax return. I too will work on them this weekend.
Thank you Laurie for your wisdom on this matter.
Yes I agree that we should be paying taxes. we should be thankful we make enough money to pay taxes. Of course, you can always lessen your taxes by giving your money away.
Blessings,
Janis