Where Your Treasure Is

Do you guys collect anything? What do you collect? I am collecting the quarters of the 50 states. My collection is worth about $9.50 and my family has fun trying to fill the spaces. Some collections are very valuable, like rare coins or stamps, or paintings by famous artists. Some collections, like family photographs or seashells, may not be valuable in terms of money but are special to just you because of the memories they hold.

Jesus warned his followers about collecting treasures on earth because treasures on earth can break, get stolen, wear out, or be destroyed. If someone were to break into my house, they might find my quarter collection and steal it. A water leak in your house could ruin your collections of stuffed animals or trading cards. Do you understand why Jesus warned his followers not to concentrate on stuff on earth? Treasures on earth can’t last forever.

Jesus encouraged his followers to store up treasures in heaven instead where they won’t break, get stolen, wear out, or be destroyed. What are some ways you can store up treasures in heaven?

• Obeying God
• Helping others
• Giving money to God
• Sharing Jesus with our friends
• Spending time at church worshipping, learning, working, and serving

Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” What Jesus was saying is that if you concentrate on collecting treasures in heaven by doing the things we talked about, your heart will be in heaven also. Is “in heaven” a good place to have your heart? I think so too.

Dear God, We want our hearts to be in heaven with You. Help us to concentrate on storing up treasures in heaven by obeying You, helping others, giving You money, sharing Jesus with our friends, and spending time at church worshipping, learning, working, and serving. Amen.