“You shall worship before the Lord your God.  And you shall rejoice in all the good that the Lord your God has given to you and to your house.”  Deuteronomy 26:10-11

“As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the certainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.  They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share.”  1 Timothy 6:17-18

By the end of the day tomorrow we must render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s.  CPAs can put 2022 behind them and have weekends off. Some clients enter the door with plans to spend a refund.  Others, more cynical, mutter having to enter that door at all.   There are many jokes and even more complaints.  We, who have worked so hard, foot the bill for projects that mean nothing to us, for “handouts” to folks who haven’t earned it.  But spring potholes are a jarring reminder that services aren’t free … good roads and safe bridges, fire and police protection, clean water and sewer.  I am privileged to have quality of life that comes with parks and bike trails and a band shell.  I accept responsibility to support the standard of living I take for granted.   

“To whom much is given, much will be required” (Luke 12:48).  I am a citizen of God’s community.  What is my responsibility to others who share this global neighborhood?  Today, everyday, we (should) render unto God what is God’s.  God does not require yearling calves, thousands of rams or ten thousand rivers of oil.  God requires that I do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.  Sometimes that is harder than writing a check.  

Death and taxes … certainties per Benjamin Franklin.  The one has no brackets, no loopholes.  The widow’s mite is no less than Cayman Island bank deposits.  Our dues are paid.  We, who have not earned it, live on unconditional, unlimited welfare – God’s grace.    “Take my silver and my gold, not a mite would I withhold. Take myself and I will be ever, only, all for Thee.”  Amen (Frances R. Havergal)

Verla Olson     

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party