The extra mile

“Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast a hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.” - Matthew 17v27

Sometimes we can be guilty of trying to get by with as little as we can when it comes to dealing with people. We do what is required when it comes to dealing with authorities, but usually that is about it. We may try to cut corners on our tax, take advantage of loop-holes and otherwise just do the minimum we can.

Jesus set a whole different example for us. One day the men who collected the temple tax came by to ask Peter if Jesus was going to pay the tax. When Peter went to Jesus He pointed out that no father would ever tax his son in an earthly kingdom, so there was no reason to pay the tax. However, Jesus did not seek to take advantage of any loop-holes or clauses. He told Peter, so as to not offend the authorities they would go ahead and pay the tax.

Christians should be above board when it comes to dealing with authorities. While we are to be wise stewards and not wasteful, at the same time, if we do what is right God will provide, just as He did when He provided the coin in the fish’s mouth.