I'm still working on our 2005 income taxes. I know time is running out. I made the mistake of offering to help two of our children with their taxes which complicated my efforts. They are eagerly awaiting their refund. The hurdle is deciding if we get a larger refund by claiming our children as dependents one last time. So, I feel compelled to run all the "What if's."
Surely it is not an accident that Lent and tax season overlap. Tax season provides an opportunity to review the decisions we've made in using our financial resources. I do believe the adage if you want to know what your values are, look at the way you spend your money. Gathering receipts and other documents to prepare our tax returns paints a clear picture of where our money goes. "We spent how much for that?" I know we gave more money but I can't find the receipts." What does it mean to spend nearly $900 for cable TV?
Self-assessment is the first step in celebrating this penitential season of Lent. I hadn't thought of tax preparation as a system of self-assessment. Perhaps I've turned a blind eye to what my annual efforts at tax preparation is trying to tell me. Ignorance is bliss but it is no defense. The wall I use to keep my faith life separated from my financial life just crumbled. As I celebrate the Easter Sacraments this year I know I'm called to a deeper commitment.
"Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people." (Ps 106:4a)