No Taxes

            “No New Taxes” is a theme being often stated in the political campaigns this year.  Or some proclaim the idea of cutting the taxes which already are on the books.  Of course we have income taxes, property taxes, vehicle taxes, gasoline taxes, sales taxes and on and on.

            Wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t have to pay taxes at all?  Or would it?  We depend on federal, state and local governments for a lot of things.  Our military defends us, our local law enforcement protects us, the government makes sure our food and drugs are safe, the government seeks to insure that the transportation we use from airlines to buses, operate as safely as possible, and on and on.  These services do not come free.  Someone must pay for them.  That “someone” is the various governments which provide them.  The only way the government can raise money to do so is through taxes.  We can argue over the priority of taxes or the equality of responsibility (i.e. my taxes verses your taxes).  But in a democracy the people must pay the bills.  So let the politicians talk all they wish, it will not change that truth. 

            When Jesus was asked about paying taxes, he responded, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”  We need to do the same.  The government must have enough revenue to provide the services we need and want.

Grace and peace.

Getting Fit

             The month of January each year sees a spike in enrollments in gyms and fitness centers.  Evidently a lot of people make resolutions or decisions to get into shape or lose weight.  The reality is that many do not stick with their decisions and slip back into their old lifestyle.  It takes a highly motivated person to stick with it.  Often what they need is a complete change in lifestyle, not just a burst of resolution.  And I, for one, know how difficult that is to achieve. 

            The same is true of our spiritual lives.  Many people make new commitments to the Lord during revival meetings.  Others come through a crisis or physical trauma with a new resolution to live for the Lord.  Often the same happens with their burst of spiritual resolution.  They slip back into their former lifestyle.

            Paul reminds us that we are after an “imperishable crown.”  And he says therefore, “I run thus, not with uncertainty.  Thus I fight, not as one who beats the air.  But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.”  (1 Corinthians 9:26-27)

            The quest for that imperishable crown is a 24/7 discipline to be and do all Christ wants us to be and do.  And, in like manner, the quest for a strong and healthy body is a 24/7 discipline.  I haven’t developed that lifestyle yet, but I’m working on it, even as I continue to develop the spiritual lifestyle I desire and which, I am sure, Christ desires for me.

            May He give more power to you and to me this year.

Grace and peace.

I'm Back

I haven't posted since early December.  You know the reason, too many things going on.  I hope to do better.  Thank you for your understanding.

           I trust your Christmas was a happy celebration.  The birthday of Jesus continues to be one of the most celebrated days of the year, even though many celebrants do not know Jesus and many, I’m sure, don’t even know who He is.  May God continue to use the celebration of His birth to reach many for Him.

            Let us also wish you a Happy New Year!  It is sobering to me, who was born in the depression year of 1935 that this is 2012.  Where did all that time go?

            I don’t make many predictions, but I can safely make this prediction.  The New Year will usher in both good and bad.  We don’t know what the future holds for any one of us.  But we have dealt with the ups and downs of previous years, and God will help us through whatever we face this year.  Because of this, because He will be with us at all times and in all circumstances, because we know we have the victory no matter what, because He holds the future, we will certainly have a Happy New Year.

            We claim the promise of God through the pen of Isaiah,  “Fear not, for I am with you;  Be not dismayed for I am your God.  I will strengthen you, Yes I will help you,  I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”  (Isaiah 41:10)

            Do have a Happy New Year, and in Christ I know you will!

Grace and peace.