Begin with 2 minutes of silence.
Scripture: Matthew 6:19-21
19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.
21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Devotional
By John DenHerder
What comes to mind when you hear the word treasure? From the context of this scripture, I immediately think of something valuable - something we seek out and desire to hold on to. Maybe it’s the child in me, but It conjures up images of buried chests full of gold and jewels, ancient artifacts, brittle maps with mysterious clues and “X” marks the spot! Like pirates, we can spend a lot of time, energy and resources chasing after and collecting up those things we personally treasure. Jesus points out that the things of this world are not permanent. They are susceptible to damage and deterioration, and indeed, theft. Thus, even more time and energy (and more of our hearts) go into maintaining and protecting our temporary, earthly treasures. Jesus is inviting us to shift our focus away from the temporary and toward the eternal; away from ourselves and toward Himself and others.
Jesus is inviting us to shift our focus away from the temporary and toward the eternal; away from ourselves and toward Himself and others.
How then do we lay up treasures in heaven while we reside on earth? In God’s economy, I believe it boils down to loving Him and loving others. By being an outward expression of God’s love to others, we are stocking His heavenly kingdom with the greatest treasure. When we show that love through giving our time, talents and resources, it pleases God – we are blessed to be a blessing! As we prepare to celebrate Christ’s birth, let the Holy Spirit be your treasure map and guide you to heavenly treasure moments.
Questions to Consider
What treasures have I been laying up on earth? How can I practically show God’s love and be a blessing to others this season and all seasons?
Prayer
Father, I thank you for loving me so much that you sent your son, the greatest treasure, for my redemption. I pray that my time and energy would be focused on building up treasures in heaven, rather than here on earth. God, would you show me ways that I can be a blessing to others? Guide my heart to those in need and help me to give freely to further your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, amen.
End with 2 minutes of silence.