We have finally convinced my mom to move into a retirement residence. So the last week or so, and for the next week or two, I am spending days in her home helping her downsize. It is so difficult for her - all those treasures that she has collected and now having to decide which she has to leave behind.
I was reflecting on that this morning. What treasures have I collected? Could I walk away from them? Then a passage of scripture came to me: "but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal." [Matthew 6:20]
It is lovely to look around my office where I have my favourite things. I feel joy in looking at them - remembering where I found them. I would be so upset if anything happened to them. But then, I look at the pictures on my desk - Jesus laughing, Mary holding the baby Jesus, Jesus praying with an old man. And they fill me with love and joy - beyond anything that my earthly treasures can evoke.
This next couple of weeks will be a time of reflection for me - a reminder that our treasures are truly in heaven. A reminder to find joy and hope in seeing the face of God. To look for the real treasures in our life - not those that rust or can be stolen.
My hand reaches for my bible.....
