The Eternal Economy

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” - Matthew 6:21

In Matthew 6:19-24, Jesus offers the foundation for a worry-free life. To summarize, He says to store up treasures in heaven, not on earth. His reason? Because earthly treasures will disappear, but heavenly investments last forever…and more importantly, they matter forever. “Treasure” here means that which is of most value to you. I believe Jesus speaks of not only monetary resources (but of course this as well), but also the precious resources of our time and effort. In other words, where and how we spend our lives.

Our lives, as Christ followers, are to be poured out for eternity, not for the passing pleasures of this world. Our checkbooks, calendars, and agendas should reflect a heart pointed heavenward, and a life lived that way.

So what does treasure have to do with worry? Everything, according to Jesus. Our hearts follow our treasures. If our hearts are divided by worry, then maybe it is because our resources are not being invested in the eternal. Maybe we have gotten “sucked in” to the American Dream of more, more, more. Perhaps giving to the poor and to the advancement of the Gospel has taken a backseat to driving a nice car, wearing stylish, name-brand clothes, or having the latest i-gadget.

Jesus wasn’t anti-money…and He still isn’t. He is, however, anti-selfish. He is for us, and His desire is not to take from us, but to give to us. In His economy, receiving what matters requires giving up what does not. Jim Elliot, who gave his very life to bring the Gospel to savages living in the deep jungles of Ecuador, understood this truth. He said, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”

Father, show me where I am investing in the temporary instead of the eternal; and help me to change. I want my life to be for the sake of the Gospel, not the passing pleasures of the world. In Jesus’ name, amen.