Tax Season

DEAR LORD, preparing an annual tax return is always stressful for me. Each year I dread the forms, instructions, and new rules, fearful that I don’t have the necessary documentation. The possibility that I might need to pay more taxes this year than I expected looms in the back of my mind.

I’m reminded, God, of your Son’s clever reply when people tried to trick him into saying something against the government’s tax collection. “Show me a Roman coin. Whose picture and title are stamped on it? . . . Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.”

As I approach tax season again, I’m reminded of my responsibility to pay taxes, and to do it truthfully and fairly. May I remember all the benefits I enjoy because of these monies: good highways, social services, a strong military, and much more. We are blessed by all of these things.

Help me understand each section of my tax forms and take advantage of the benefits to which I’m entitled. As I record my information accurately and completely, please guide me through each step. May I show respect for the authority under which you have placed me. Amen.