The first reading today is from Second Corinthians, and Paul recounts the trials and tribulations that he endured. If his life of ministry were a movie, most would see it as simply make believe. His words in the Bible are true, as are the beatings, shipwrecks, hunger, thirst and exposure. He was stripped of all he had, but thanks be to God, his real treasures remained in his heart, and his ministry was ultimately a success.
Treasures on Earth
The Gospel today links nicely to the first reading and warns us about our treasures here on Earth. Treasures here on Earth can be lost, hacked, stolen, destroyed, wasted, or confiscated. We need some amount of treasure to support our families, and as the primary bread winner for my family, I get it. However, I have friends and former classmates who pursue financial treasure with most of their efforts. If in doubt, the dollars or financial success are first priority for them.
Treasures in the Heart
The Gospel is also spot on when it states that “where your treasure is, your heart will be also be”. In my opinion, we could replace “treasure” with many other words, and the statement would hold true with Bible-like truth. If my “treasure” is family, health and wellness, a clean environment, teaching the faith, or seeking God, then my heart can be in a good place. If my treasure is to deceive, achieve gain at the expense of others, gain riches unjustly, or to torment certain people, then my heart could certainly be in the wrong place. Our daily priorities and activities hint about what our treasures are. Ponder that one for a second, as you think about how you spend your time today!
Final Accounting
When our final day comes, and we take a final accounting of our lives, what will our balance sheet of treasures look like? Will we be filled with joy regarding the Bitcoin we own, our fine shoe collection, or the Porsche 911 in the garage? I hope and pray that in our final accounting statement, we will have treasure in the Lord’s column. Perhaps proud moments in our Catholic lives, or helping even one person get closer to the Lord.
A popular quote is “you can’t take it with you when you go”. I suppose that depends on what IT may be. Let’s focus on positive treasures in the heart this week. These sorts of treasures are very secure, are good to have in our lives today, and their value will skyrocket when it really counts.
