Is There more?

One day, as Jesus was speaking among his friends, a group of men approached Him with what seemed like a simple question: “Tell us,” they said, “what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?"
 
This was a loaded question. The men who asked were hoping Jesus would respond in a way that aligned with their own views—either endorsing or rejecting the Roman Empire’s authority. The crowd, too, waited with anticipation.
 
But Jesus’ reply cut through the trap they had set for Him: “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and give to God what belongs to God.” Though His words were simple, the wisdom they conveyed reached far beyond the moment. Jesus urged His listeners not to let political debate overshadow their higher calling, encouraging them to look beyond politics.  Jesus provided a principle of balance between civic duty and spiritual devotion.
 
And His response is still relevant today. We all know we have to give unto Caesar, we have to go to school, we have to go to work, we have to pay our taxes and follow the laws of our country.  But how many times have you wondered, IS THERE MORE?
 
Jesus’ invitation to a balanced life was this: Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar but offer to God what belongs to God.
 
Fulfill your obligations to the world—whether that means being a responsible citizen, a diligent employee, a loving parent, or a faithful leader. Even in the everyday pleasures of life—enjoying sports, playing video games, spending time with family and friends—God desires for you to embrace these things. They are part of the world God has placed you in.
 
But in doing so, don’t neglect what belongs to God. Set aside time for God. Allow God to shape your heart and guide your decisions. Let God be your compass in times of self-reflection, your source of strength in difficult moments. Worship the God who created you, who sustains you, and who offers hope beyond this world. The demands of this world are real, but so is our need for a relationship with God. Give to the world what belongs to the world, but never forget to give God what belongs to God: your heart, your time, and your devotion.
 
If you’re looking for a place to nurture that balance and grow deeper in your faith, church can be a space to reflect, worship, and connect with others who are also seeking to find that balance. There’s always room for you.