DEVOTION / Jesus our treasure
I must have focused on too many pirate stories and shows when I was growing up. Whenever I hear the word treasure, the picture of a pirate treasure chest pops into my mind. Follow the secret map and dig up the golden loot! X marks the spot, right?
Jesus asks us to consider what we treasure in Matthew 6. He is asking us what we truly love. How do we honestly answer? As Christians, we likely know the answer we are supposed to give, but is that true in our real-life actions?
Take a moment and consider the habits and routines you treasure. Is it that morning cup of coffee? That game on TV you just can't miss? The hobby that you always need to spend money on? Your daily workout routine? Or, perhaps, something more sinister?
Review your treasures
Realistically, our habits are indicators of what we treasure. They are based on what we find important. As you ponder the habits of your life, evaluate. Are those treasured habits leading you to a closer relationship with your Savior, or are they indicators that other gods, priorities, or values are ruling your life?
The words of Jesus in Matthew 6:21 remind us that where our treasure is, that’s where our heart will be. Our Savior is cautioning us that earthly treasures — as enjoyable as we may find them — are temporary and easy to lose. Compare that to heavenly treasures that are eternal and secure.
Review your eyes
In Matthew 6: 22–23, Jesus moves the discussion to our eyes. What our eyes choose to look at is strongly related to what we treasure. He says: if your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light. That is a good thing! We know Jesus is the Light of the world and to be filled with light is a great treasure.
Jesus contrasts this with bad eyes that are full of darkness. That leads to your whole body being full of darkness. Healthy, good eyes discern and follow Jesus’ teaching. Those eyes see the foolishness of storing up earthly treasures. Unhealthy eyes are blind and lead one away from what is good and right.
Earthly treasures or heavenly treasures? Our Lord plainly tells us we cannot serve both. We can have only one master. We can only love or be devoted to one or the other. We will hate the one or despise the other.
316NOW’s ministry clearly points the way to serve a loving Savior who has died to secure heavenly treasures for His followers. May the many souls we touch with Jesus' message of hope and life be drawn to see the eternal treasure of our Savior and his Word.
by Dave Payne