Taxes

The last few days someone has been out along the road waving to passing cars dressed as of all things the Statue of Liberty. The kids asked why someone would be doing that. I told them it was an advertising gimmick for the Liberty Tax Office; it is tax season again and they are out there drumming up business for themselves. I used to dread tax time fearful of how much I would have to pay out in income taxes, but now it is a constant reminder of God’s provision—a reason to give thanks!

Peter found himself confronted by some eager tax collectors wanting to know if Jesus paid the customary taxes. These were not taxes paid to the Roman government but the temple tax paid by all Jewish males for the upkeep of the Temple. Before Peter had a chance to tell Jesus about it, Jesus used what happened to show His disciples that He was God’s Son.

Jesus asked Peter, “Who do kings collect taxes from—from their sons or their subjects?” Peter rightly answered that it was from the citizens and not the children that a king levied taxes.

Jesus said, "Then the children get off free, right? But so we don't upset them needlessly, go down to the lake, cast a hook, and pull in the first fish that bites. Open its mouth and you'll find a coin. Take it and give it to the tax men. It will be enough for both of us."
Matthew 17:26, 27 (MsgB)

Jesus wanted His disciples to understand that as God’s Son he was exempt from the Temple tax. A king rules over all and claims ownership of his kingdom; that’s why a king levies taxes. Jesus as the Son of God had the ultimate authority over all of heaven and earth; everything belonged to Him.

Nevertheless Jesus didn’t want to upset the tax collectors needlessly, so He used this opportunity to prove His identity in a most unusual way. Jesus didn’t reach into his pocket to get the money for the tax. He sent Peter fishing! From the mouth of a fish Jesus paid his tax and Peter’s too.

Now you know why taxes are no big deal to me anymore. Jesus provided for Peter and the Lord will provide for you and me as well. Have faith in everything that we serve a loving King who has given us liberty through His Son and will provide us with all that we need because we too are now His children.

AFTER THOUGHT: The proof is in the phone call I just received as I finished writing this. Unexpectedly someone wants to buy an air purifier from me because they've been told by their sister who bought one two years ago from me how great they are. That will be $600 to pay taxes this year I wasn't even counting on!