Earthly Treasures
By Grace Andrews of Independence, MO, USA
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. —Matthew 6:19–21 NRSV
We’ve had more than our share of illnesses this year, not unlike many others. One day at a time we have tried to face each new challenge positively. We keep telling each other, “We’re going to make it.”
As we have been more or less housebound, we’ve had time to take a good look at those things in our home which we consider treasures. We’ve stored them in various places—some in plain sight, others hidden under a bed, in the cedar chest, or in the back of a closet. Reality tells us a day will come when we pass from this earth, and these “treasures” will not go with us. Someone will go through our belongings at that time and will not know their history. Some of these items have been passed down to us for safekeeping and we have kept our promise by keeping them secure. But now it’s time to let go.
So, we have been evaluating some of these earthly treasures and decided to give them to our children and others, sharing the history of each item. It has brought us so much joy to see their appreciation as they hug items to them and say, “I will treasure this for the rest of my life.” One day, they will find the need to “let go” and pass meaningful items to their progenitors. And perhaps some of those things we held dear will be among them.
But we can share the most meaningful treasures we have day by day as long as we live—our dependence on the Spirit, our testimonies, our deep love of our Lord. And as we share them, we know we can also take such experiences with us, as well as leave their legacy behind. We hope our children will hug those treasures to them and say, “I will treasure these testimonies for the rest of my life.”
What matters most as we enter the next life is how much we have set our hearts on Christ and heavenly treasures.
Prayer Phrase
May I see your light in all life.
Invitation to Spiritual Practice
Light of God
Close your eyes, and become centered with your breath. As you breathe gently in and out, reflect on the statement, “The light of God is in all things.” The light has a bright, soft beauty and radiates God’s healing love. The light of God reaches you and permeates you with a deep sense of peace. Rest in the light as it surrounds and fills you. Thank God that you live in God’s light, and it lives in you.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
