I used to visit a local coffee shop and bakery to meet people or enjoy a coffee while getting some work done. The place was always busy, and I usually saw someone I knew. More than once I noticed someone reading their Bible or discussing it with a friend.

Then one morning I walked up to a locked door plastered with official notices. Closed on the order of the State of Colorado and the County of Boulder—Failure to Pay Taxes. I nearly collapsed. Along with the denial of the cream cheese cherry danish I’d been thinking about for at least two days, a favorite meeting place now stood barred. On top of my disappointment, the spiritual health of our community took a real dive.

The apostle Paul wrote about money and taxes. Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue, if respect, then respect, if honor, then honor.

Pay what you owe. If you owe the government, pay up. I notice that Paul does not say to avoid hiring an accountant to keep from overpaying. But a good citizen gives the government its due.

I also notice the call to give respect and honor to those deserving respect and honor. This includes public officials, as well as those around us living honorable lives. Who do I overlook or take from granted that deserve a word of honor? I benefit from servant-hearted people who work quietly and effectively. Offering my thanks for their service acknowledges their value and lifts their spirits.

Nearby my office a new bakery just opened—a French place with coffee and chocolate croissants. I’m hooked. I wonder if a quiet talk with the owners on taxes would be in order?

Romans 13 in reading the Bible cover to cover in 2022

Photo by Kelly Sikkema