In this very famous run of scripture, Jesus is addressing the issue of taxes. This was a major sore spot for the Israelites. The hated taxes were exorbitant and unfair, as well as constant reminder of the chaffing Roman rule. Jesus unexpected response? “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar.”

Well, it’s tax time here and we all groan at the thought of the piles of paperwork and the dollars they represent. It’s good to remember whose image is printed on those dollars, that truth makes it a little easier to file.

I suspect Jesus of a making a bigger point. I read it last night and again this morning and stopped both times to consider whose image is stamped on my life? The Creator’s, of course. Let’s keep reading.

““Caesar’s,” they replied. Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”” (‭‭Matthew‬ ‭22:21‬ ‭NIV)

What belongs to God? Everything that bears His image. I read it on the very first day of the year in the first chapter of the book.

“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” (Genesis‬ ‭1:27‬ ‭NIV)

To give to God what belongs to Him is to return in full what He originally created. We belong to God. We have no real claim on ourselves, the flesh doesn’t get squatter’s rights. We were created in His image for His glory and purpose. The highest aim of our existence is to give ourselves back over to Him without reservation or limitation.

Lord, we recognize Your image imprinted on our souls. We belong to Your. We give ourselves back. We recommit our lives to Your glory and purpose. Have Your way in and through us today. Amen.