Some Thoughts on Tax Day

As I began to gather some profound thoughts to offer on April 15, Tax Day, here in the United States, I was led to a passage in Romans. The fresh prose of The Message shows that Paul's civic and financial counsel is as relevant today as it was for the Christians to whom he was writing in about AD 57. Pause and reflect-- and then make sure your taxes are postmarked today!

"Be a good citizen. All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it's God's order. So live responsibly as a citizen. If you're irresponsible to the state, then you're irresponsible with God, and God will hold you responsible.

Duly constituted authorities are only a threat if you're trying to get by with something. Decent citizens should have nothing to fear. Do you want to be on good terms with the government? Be a responsible citizen and you'll get on just fine, the government working to your advantage. But if you're breaking the rules right and left, watch out. The police aren't there just to be admired in their uniforms. God also has an interest in keeping order, and he uses them to do it. That's why you must live responsibly—not just to avoid punishment but also because it's the right way to live.

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 13:1-7 The Message)