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I was thinking the other day about my treasures here on earth.
Something I like to do is find unique things at bargain prices and collect them. The only problem is that after a while I start running out of space — kind of like when Baby Jesus was born and there was no more room in the inn. To fix that, I give some of my treasures as gifts. But in resolving one issue, I find that I have uncovered a much more serious one — I have attachment issues. I find myself asking, “Why did I give that away? It was unique and cool, and I liked it a lot!” In time, I do get over my attachment issues but still retain fond memories of some of the things I once had. On the positive side, giving treasures away does make room for new inventory!
When you’re a treasure hunter, you need to be selective. If you aren’t, you could end up with things that become collectors themselves — dust collectors! That happens to me now and then so, over the years, I have learned to be more careful in the selection process.
For some time, with increasing intensity, Jesus’ words, recorded in Matthew 6 regarding treasure, have been coming to mind. He says, Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be (Matthew 6:21 NLT). As I review those words in my mind, I realize that I’m not as selective as I should be regarding my treasure choices. I am kind of like Esau. My choices are often made based on what catches my eye and satisfies here on earth. What I need to do instead is to turn the focus knob on my treasure-spotting binoculars so I clearly see the treasures God would have me collect, then store them where dust and rust and moths and thieves won’t destroy and steal.
I think being able to focus on the right stuff is part of being a good steward, don’t you?
Jon Corder is Stewardship director of the Lake Union Conference.
