Living a Life That Mattersنموونە

Day 2: Treasures in Heaven

Yesterday, we talked about how the things that we strive for in this life can’t bring us continued, long-term happiness. Jobs, houses, possessions, relationships—what Jesus referred to as “treasures on earth”—will always pass away. We also spent some time considering our personal “treasures on earth.” Continue looking for those kinds of treasures in your life as you work your way through the rest of this Bible Plan.

But “treasures on earth” weren’t the only kind of treasure Jesus talked about in the Gospel of Matthew. There was a second type of treasure—this kind, Jesus called “treasures in heaven.” And this treasure is unique because it lasts. Jesus told His followers that treasure in heaven wouldn’t wear down or pass away. Nothing and no one (death included) could separate us from this treasure, no matter how hard they try.

When Jesus talked about “treasures in heaven,” what did He mean? What does this kind of treasure actually look like? And how do we find it?

Jesus talked about treasures on earth and treasures in heaven midway through His famous Sermon on the Mount. During this time of teaching, Jesus showed His followers (and us by extension) a way of living that didn’t just look good—it was good, down to the core.

Again and again, He compared the way the world lives with the way each of us is called by our heavenly Father to live. Rather than striving for personal, short-term happiness, we’re called to seek the long-term betterment of the world around us. This looks like loving our enemies, forgiving one another, and extending generosity to others.

When we choose to pursue this radically different way of living, we can’t help but make an impact. We become more like Jesus—better able to love others, just like He loves us. And His love overflows into the lives of our family members, friends, coworkers, and acquaintances, often for decades to come.

Take a moment to consider the impact this intentional way of living could have on the world around you. What kind of legacy would you leave behind?

This is the sort of impact that lasts. Nothing can destroy it. And one day, in the next life, we’ll see the full extent of the impact we’ve made—this is our treasure in heaven.

Reflection: Take some time to read the Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew 5-7. Reflect on Jesus’ words. What’s one thing you could do this week to put Jesus’ words into practice? What kind of long-term change could your actions one day create?

Prayer: Father, thank You for loving us so much that You sent Your Son to die for our sins. Through Christ’s sacrifice, the lives of billions of people over thousands of years have changed. Would You show me how I can extend Christ’s love to the people around me, trusting that You will work long-term change and treasure through my obedience? In Jesus’ name, amen.