Taxes are an essential element when people live together in communities. They are as old as history and as certain as death. They are necessary to pay for common needs and services of the community as well as to provide for those who are disadvantaged and handicapped. Necessary as they are, taxes are also a fertile breeding ground for graft and corruption. From one who is given much, much is expected in return. A progressive tax system would impose a bigger and higher levy on those who have amassed more wealth. But it is so hard for those with wealth to part with it just like that. There are those who would rather cheat or bribe or lie to avoid paying their fair share of taxes.
The greater temptation often lies with those who collect the taxes. Throughout history, tax collectors have been a hated lot. The good ones who implement the tax laws are often seen as mean and cruel, uncompromising in their efforts at collections. The bad ones would enrich themselves by taking bribes or keeping a part of their tax collections for themselves.
The call of Jesus for a tax collector to follow him is an inspired choice. At one time, Jesus had said to render to Caesar, the things that are Caesar’s. I believe He meant for people to pay for their fair share in the expenses of running a community. He was also aware that tax collectors are a hated and often a sinful lot. It is an inspiring and consoling thought that Christ came not to call the righteous to repentance but sinners.Christ can sanctify even a hated tax collector.
If everyone were a saint, there would not have been a need for the Christ. I know I am not perfect. I am full of shortcomings. There is a lot in me that needs mending. It is an overwhelming thought that Christ came to sanctify me and bring me to the fullness of life.
“Lord, have mercy on me for I am a sinful man.”
Jesus saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the customs post.
He said to him, “Follow me.”
And leaving everything behind, he got up and followed him.
The Pharisees and their scribes complained to his disciples, saying,
“Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?”
Jesus said to them in reply,
“Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do.
I have not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners.”
Luke 5:27-32