March 26
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21
This verse is in the middle of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. In verses 19 and 20, Jesus offers two places treasures can be stored - on earth or in heaven. The treasures stored on earth are easily destroyed by “moths and vermin, and where thieves break in and steal.” The treasures stored in heaven, however, are safe and “moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Jesus then tells the people (and us) that where our treasure is, there are our hearts will be also (verse 21). Rather than our treasure following our hearts, Jesus argues the opposite is true: our hearts are pulled towards wherever we invest our resources.
In ancient times, treasure was more than money/coins. It included grain, animals, expensive clothing, homes, and land. In modern context, “treasure” represents anything we value, invest in, or rely on for security. Treasures today include: money, property, possessions, our reputation and status, relationships, and personal achievements. These broad categories cover most of the things we treasure. Items within each category may vary from person to person, but generally we have a treasure (or many treasures) that fall into these categories. Jesus describes the heart as something that seeks value and treasures. The heart searches for things of value and worth. These are what hearts are prone to chase after. Jesus teaches if people start spending their time, money, and energy on the Kingdom of Heaven (making it their treasure), then their hearts will eventually follow.
The question for me today is where are my treasures? Are they heaven-focused, or are my eyes only on what I have been blessed with here on earth? There isn’t anything wrong with having possessions, money, relationships, or a good reputation. But if my eyes are only focused on these earthly things, my heart will quickly follow. Eventually, I will be disappointed and let down because all these earthly things will decay and be lost (vs 19). These earthly treasures will not last. Then what happens to my heart that has been chasing after these things? However, if my focus is on things of heaven that are incorruptible, secure, and will never fade or perish, my heart will follow and will be richly rewarded.
What are my treasures? Where are my treasures located? Perhaps, I start by looking at my bank statement, the calendar, and the things that frequently come to my mind. What would an honest and soul-searching investigation into these areas reveal to me? If I take time and inventory the ways I am heaven-focused, what would that reveal about any treasure I have stored there? In the end I’m left to decide where I want my treasures (and heart) to be: on temporary earthly things that will end in disappointment and loss or on things of heaven that are secure, eternal, and will bring lasting joy and peace.
Father - You are the only true and lasting treasure. My heart is prone to so easily wander away and chase after treasures of this world - to things that will not last and ultimately disappoint me. In Your loving mercy, show me where I have earthly treasures. Forgive me for seeking safety and security in my possessions that will not last. Help me to invest my time, talents, and resources into things that have eternal value. In doing so, my heart will be drawn closer to You. Make my greatest joy be found in serving You. Let me life be a reflection that You are what I treasure. You are my greatest reward. In Your name we pray. Amen