Someone said that there is nothing certain in life except death and taxes.  All of us have felt the emotion and sadness regarding the death of a close friend or family member.  And, all of us know what it is to pay taxes.  In fact, I read recently that with all of the new tax increases in California, we will now pay the highest taxes in the country!

      Jesus talks about both death and taxes in Mark chapter 12.  Some opponents try to trick him by asking him some difficult questions on both of these subjects.On the question of taxes, Jesus asks for a coin and points out that has the image of the Roman Caesar on it.  Jesus said we should give to Caesar what is Caesar’s!

We should pay taxes since we enjoy the benefits and protection of human government.

      Then, he addresses the question of death.  Jesus says that God is the God of the living, not the God of the dead.  In other words, there is life after death.  He refers to people that died many years ago and indicates that they are still alive. There is life after this physical body wears out and dies.  The real person that we are, our spirit and soul continues to live on beyond this life.

      Then someone asked Jesus a final  question.  “What is the greatest commandment in the Bible”?  He answers clearly, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul mind and strength.  And, love your neighbor as yourself.”    There are many detailed commandments and instructions in the Old and New Testament.  But, when you boil it all down to the essentials, we are to love God and love people.  Pretty simple, but very significant.

      To help his followers get the message, Jesus points out a poor widow who was giving money for the Jewish temple.  The passage says that she put in two small coins.  Jesus said that this woman put in more money than all the wealthy people who had put in large sums!  Her small gift was all the money she had..  Others gave from their surplus.  She gave with great sacrifice.

      I think Jesus was trying to help his followers understand that to love God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength simply means to live by faith and be fully committed to God.  You may have a lot you can give to God and to others, or you may have very little.  It is not the size or amount that matters. It is the attitude of your heart.

      One of the best ways we can show that we love God is by loving people.  During this uncertain economic time, you may have some unexpected opportunities to help a neighbor or coworker.  Be alert to the opportunities around you.  Remember, it is a matter of the heart!