Heart and Treasure

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:21 NRSV

To answer the question of where our treasurer is, we must first answer what we treasure. We may value tangible things like homes, cars, and money, but for many, it's intangible. Those items that we can't easily put a price tag on. Our intangible treasures include relationships with family and friends, leisure activities, and certainly our time. I remember complaining to my Marketing Professor, friend, and devout Christian, Ed Cerny, that I didn't have enough time to complete a class assignment to the best of my ability. I recall his response, "We always find time to do the things we care about." That's been a valuable life lesson that has stuck with me for over 30 years. 

Jesus was saying the same thing in today's verse. We make the things we cherish a priority in our lives. In reviewing the list of items we treasure, where is our relationship with God? Is he at the top of our lists? Is he on the list? Or do our treasures lie elsewhere? 

We all know that If a relationship is essential, it requires time, commitment, and resolve. Our relationship with God is no different. In studying His word and spending time in conversation with Him, our bond strengthens. Our hearts continue to grow as we come to cherish this special relationship.

The other things we treasure are okay if they are righteous and pure. God desires us to have joy in family, friends, and leisure time. He placed Adam and Eve in the most beautiful garden for their enjoyment. But they became blinded by the false promises of the snake telling them, "Sure, you've got it good, but you can have it better." Chaos ensues when we put our wants and desires ahead of our Creator. Our treasure, our heart, begins with Christ, followed by everything else.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gifts you give us daily. All we hold dear and cherish are gifts from you. You value us as your children and continually show us your love and compassion. We confess we often allow other treasures to come between us and our relationship with you; forgive us those times. Please help us review the items we cherish and place our relationship with you at the top of our list. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen

Blessings,

Pastor Tim