“That’s also why you pay taxes—so that an orderly way of life can be maintained. Fulfill your obligations as a citizen. Pay your taxes, pay your bills, respect your leaders.” -Romans 13:6-7 [MSG]

A Different Perspective on Tax Day!
“Last April 15, when I handed my tax payment to the post office clerk, she said, “I hate tax day.” I replied, “Not me. I don’t love parting with the money, but I kinda like it. That check is a bargain—roads, schools, medical care, social security, and the freedom of living in a great country. It is patriotism by checkbook, a sort of American tithe. Why should I hate it?” She replied, “Why, I’ve never heard anybody say that! It isn’t such a bad deal when you put it that way.”
-Diana Butler Bass: American historian of Christianity; author; speaker; PhD in religious studies from Duke University with an emphasis on American ecclesiastical history

A Time to Act…
Today, remind yourself of Paul’s words about paying taxes. Think about what they do for our country—even for yourself. No country could work together without all people stepping up to make this country a place to live, work, worship and recreate. That’s God’s gift to us!

A Time to Pray…
O Lord, here I am again, April 15 and wrestling with taxes. Help me to remember that Jesus called Matthew to follow Him even though Matthew’s work was a taxpayer. We all have jobs that help to work together for our country and our world and only in you, God, can we accomplish what is needed. May I be joyful today that some of my dollars will help schools, roads, medicines and so much more. AMEN.