060813 Treasures for the Long Haul Instead of the Short Fall

060813 Treasures for the Long Haul Instead of the Short Fall
Jesus tells us not to store up for ourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; but to store up for ourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal (Matthew 6:19-20).
There are leaflets and websites that promise to show ways to gather treasure and make a lot of money. They list ways to make a fortune, including sales and marketing, trading real estate, investing in stocks, saving more and spending less, and receiving more training and education for financial planning and guidance.
Every commercial or ad in the public media claims to tell us what treasures should be. They also imply that we worry a lot about our financial security. Apparently, it’s not enough to save and invest for retirement or for our children’s future. But, in the end, everyone knows that we cannot hold on to the things of this world forever. We can collect all the wealth and riches possible, but in the not too distant future “this too will pass.” All things of this world will decay.
Our eternal and abundant life with God is the ultimate treasure and security that we compassionately receive and share. We hope for a means to exchange this life’s burdens and care for the real and truly lasting treasure in God’s love and care for us.
When Jesus promised the repentant thief on the cross eternal life in paradise (Luke 23:43), He didn’t argue “If you died tonight, where would you spend eternity?” Some people choose to stay away from God’s Word, the church and an obedient life for God, because they fear rejection from God’s love and grace.
Some unchurched folk respond to evangelism with statements like: “How could someone as sinful as I spend eternity with a holy God?” or “Oh, you’re all just a bunch of hypocrites.” But I keep thinking that I’m really no better than they are in God’s eyes. I’m really like the repentant thief who is receiving Christ’s promise of paradise on the cross. We don’t have to rebuke other sinners who mock Jesus and His promise of eternal life like the one did to the other at Calvary. But we can still offer His salvation through Jesus Christ by our example, if not necessarily with our words.
Some people may not have time for a lengthy prayer or to read a tract like this Steeple article or a Dexter welcoming brochure to make sure the right doctrine or right words are spoken or understood. Some may not even have enough time to come to the altar for communion or to be baptized. But if they call out to the Lord, they shall be saved (Romans 10:13, Joel 2:32) and spend eternity in paradise with God. New life is available at the cross even if we don’t deserve it. That is salvation by grace alone.
Heavenly Father, please remove our fear of losing what we have and give ourselves over to You. Help us to follow Jesus Christ and know His ways, which are not our ways. Please store our real treasure in heaven with You. Thank You for life's greatest treasure in receiving Your abiding and steadfast love.
Thank you, Father, for the shed blood of your Son that has purchased the secure and eternal life with You. In the precious name of Jesus Christ, Amen.