Romans 13:1-7

 1Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no
authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have
been established by God. 2Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is
rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment
on themselves. 3For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who
do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what
is right and he will commend you. 4For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if
you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s
servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5Therefore, it
is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment
but also because of conscience. 6This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities
are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7Give everyone what
you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then
respect; if honour, then honour.

Meditation
1. In this passage, Paul commands, “Fulfill your obligations as a citizen.  Pay
your taxes, pay your bills, respect your leaders.”  What is my obligation as a
citizen to this country and to the kingdom of God?  In what specific ways can
I respect my leaders?
2. Find a list of names of my local officials (mayor, city councillor) as well as my
MPP and MP.  Pray for each one of them by name.  Pray that God would use
them to lead wisely and justly.

Personal Note:
I respect them by paying my taxes and bills.  I say respectable things about them.  I am obligated to follow their leadership.  The MP for Unionville is John McCallum and for Oak-Ridge Region is Paul Calandra.  The MPP is Michael Chan.  I prayed for them to lead with wisdom and justice.