Treasure: Trading What's Temporary for What Lastsਨਮੂਨਾ

Day 2: Trading Treasure

Yesterday, we discussed the idea that we all orient our lives around the pursuit of some type of treasure. It might be money, a relationship, a job, or even education or status. While these are not inherently bad things to pursue, the danger becomes when they are the ultimate thing we chase after, even as we try to commit our lives to following God.

In Matthew 6, Jesus offers a compelling vision for why storing eternal treasure matters more than pursuing temporary things. If our lives are oriented around something that will eventually fade, how does that help us grow in the knowledge and mystery of an eternal God? Instead of investing ourselves in things that will not last into eternity, what would it mean for us to treasure the things that will be a part of the Kingdom forever?

Now, I want to be crystal clear here, finding joy and satisfaction in "earthly" things is good! God has filled the human experience with many beautiful, special, albeit temporary, things. And choosing to enjoy those things is a way we can actually celebrate God and his vast creation! But we must be wary of focusing on those temporary treasures so completely that we miss the broader work God is doing to invite us to be a part of His Kingdom.

Think about it this way: Is a birthday cake the focal point of a birthday party? Of course not; the honoree is! While a tasty, sweet cake has a place at the party, it is not the reason we gather for a birthday celebration. Our treasures are the same; they have a place in our lives, but they should never be the point of our lives.

For some of us, taking a step to build treasures in the Kingdom might require relinquishing some of the time and attention we give to temporary treasures on earth. While this might be challenging, Scripture promises that the things God has prepared for those who love him are more valuable than anything we could conceive.

Reflection:

• What would it mean to trade the pursuit of treasure on earth for the ultimate treasure found in Christ?
• What are the relationships, things, or pursuits that you need to reprioritize to better focus on the things that have eternal significance and Kingdom realities?
• Practically speaking, what does that reprioritization look like?