Jesus' enemies laid trappings when they asked Him whether it's right to pay taxes to Caesar or not. And thus came the line: render to Cesar what is Cesar's, and to God what is God's.

What have I rendered to my beloved Philippines? Hmm...

Trabahong may tatak Pinoy (meaning, work output that's honest, with quality, requires less supervision, on time).

Constant bank remittances to my family. (And as far as I know, my family pays their taxes).

Mouthing to my kabayans in the office about how really beautiful our country is if only we'd take time to venture its beautiful beaches, amazing wonders and quality cuisine. (Na-try mo na ba'ng mag-caving sa Sumaguing Cave sa Sagada? O zip-line kaya sa Butuan?)

I exercised my right of suffrage. (Am proud to say I haven't missed any of the Presidential elections even if I'm working abroad).

Quite a handful.

And what have I rendered to God aber?

Nothing but contant I'm sorries and constant promises. Constant, empty promises -- about how I will be better, how I will be nicer, how less a sinner will I be, etcetera, etcetera.

Endless rhetorics which, if turned into little peebles, will fill a whole oil tank at Kuwait National Petroleum Company. (And boy, are they really big!).

There's not much difference between then and now. Like in this week's parable, my prayers to God are outlined in the same manner when they questioned Jesus.

First, I praise Him. Much like the Pharisees' line: “Teacher, we know how honest you are. You teach the way of God truthfully. You are impartial and don’t play favorites.").

And then I lay out my demands just like the Pharisees: "Now tell us what you think about this: Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” In my case, the question goes like this: "Can I be selective in what to follow among your to-do list? Hirap po kasi eh."

Instead of allowing God to do His will in my life, I question God and instruct Him what to do with me. Thy will be done, Oh Lord, but...(and then I mutter the endless list of requests).

Oh, incorrigible me!

Prayer: May I be a better Filipino, oh Lord, and a much better Christian! Lead me, oh Lord, because quite honestly, I can't do it without You!