Bucket List

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal."
Matthew 6:19-20 (NIV)

Have you ever noticed how a health challenge can completely change your perspective?

Let me tell you about Fred. When doctors said he was dying, something remarkable happened–but not what you might expect.

Fred decided to start living as if every day might be his last. "I simply stopped doing everything that wasn't essential," he said. The important things became more important, and the trivial things began to fade. But here's the twist–months later, Fred learned he'd been misdiagnosed. His condition was actually curable.

Instead of being overjoyed, Fred broke down sobbing. He feared returning to old patterns of wasting his time on things that didn’t matter.

There's nothing wrong with having dreams and goals for this life. Sky diving. Visiting the Great Wall. Swimming with dolphins. But Jesus calls you to a different kind of bucket list. He talks about storing up treasures in heaven–investments that can't be destroyed by moths or stolen by thieves.

What if your bucket list this year began with growing closer to God? How about sharing your faith with that neighbor who doesn't know Jesus? Or maybe reconciling with that family member you haven’t spoken to in years.

The truth is, you don't need a terminal diagnosis to start living with eternal purpose. Every morning you wake up is another opportunity to invest in what truly matters. Every conversation is a chance to share God's love. And every one of your decisions is an opportunity to store up treasures in heaven.

Which eternal bucket list item deserves your attention today?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your divine perspective, teaching me to invest in eternal treasures. Please help me see my life through heaven's eyes. Give me the courage to invest in what truly matters, not just what feels urgent today. Show me how to store up treasures in heaven by loving you and loving others well. In Jesus' name, Amen.