Material possessions are transitory, with most of them deteriorating in a comparatively short time. Anciently, garments could not be protected from the ravages of moths in the caterpillar stage, and there were no security systems to deter thieves from breaking into homes and stealing. Rust, then as now, ruins what was once attractive. Material possessions are never secure. They may depreciate or be stolen, ruined, or destroyed. Jesus’ admonition not to make the accumulation of material “treasure” the prime focus in life continues to be applicable. (Matthew 6:19)
The wiser course is to store up “treasure in heaven,” the place of ultimate security. It is by using one’s assets, time, and energies unselfishly for the good of others out of loving concern for them that one makes a record that is divinely approved. Building up an account of generous giving based on one’s ability and in expression of genuine compassion is comparable to making a deposit in heaven, for the recompense will be received from the Most High. The writer of the letter to the Hebrews assured fellow believers: “God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love you showed for his name [or for him], having served and continuing to serve the holy ones.” (Hebrew 6:10) No moth, no rust, no thief, or any other destructive agent can lessen the value of the treasure deposited in heaven. (Matthew 6:20)
Whatever one may consider as being of chief value will be the object on which one’s heart or one’s desires and affections are centered. As Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there also your heart will be.” (Matthew 6:21)
Note:
According to Luke’s account (12:33, 34), Jesus, on another occasion, repeated the teaching about storing up treasure in heaven.