In California, state and federal taxes are due in April. Citizens begin to calculate what they owe with varied emotions and attitudes – fear, panic, resentment, etc. Some put off filing until a later date. Others make arrangements to pay past dues at a discount. Many give their information and receipts to tax preparation businesses to file for them. And then there are those who are free from worries because they have arranged to have a certain amount, during the year, deducted from their pay and designated for taxes. They may even be looking for a rebate. Hopefully, only a few ignore the whole process.
      When Christ was asked, “Is it lawful to pay a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?” He settled the matter for those who follow Him. For a visual reminder, Christ asked to be given a coin. He then asked, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” The answer was, “Caesar’s.” Christ then said, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.” (Matt. 22:15-22)
      As I ran across this story in my Bible reading, what impressed me was the visual demonstration using the coin and the second part of Christ’s final statement. Humans, like the the coin, have imprinted on us the likeness and image of our ruler. (Gen. 1:27) God’s Law is written (inscribed) in our hearts. (Rom. 2:15) So we are to give God what is due Him, presenting our bodies as a living and holy sacrifice. (Rom. 12:1)
      Thus, this question arises, do Christians approach giving what is due God in the way we approach paying our taxes – with fear, panic, resentment, etc.? Do we procrastinate offering our service to Him? Do we give less than what is due God? Do we let others do what God is calling us to do? Or do we ignore the whole matter?
      To be admired is the Christian who is joyfully offering to God the use of his/her body as an act of worship.