December 11: In Store

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

What kinds of treasures cannot be stolen? Words, feelings, thoughts, emotions. They are safely tucked within us. Stockpiling tech gifts and gift cards leave us vulnerable to thieves, and we are painfully monitoring our stuff before it decays or is stolen. We are so exposed and stressed trying to protect our pile. There is a better way. 

Although initially your mind may hop over to the Wise Men bringing gifts for Baby Jesus, gifts that far surpass any Target gift registry, stop for a minute and ponder these thieves. We now deal with the true hazards of having treasure in current day life: where there is treasure, there is also someone wanting to take that treasure. We need to stockpile the good gifts of God's Word. They are hidden in our heart, so that we don't sin against God.  (Psalm 119:11) They are hidden in our heart and cannot be taken from us.

The Wise Men brought gold, frankincense, and myrrh. (All three had significant meanings that we may explore another time.) These magi, as they were called, were shrewdly asked by Herod to reveal the baby's location so that "he could also worship this new king." Or not. Protecting the baby showed the treasure of their heart.

Who or what needs your protection from rust and theft? Just tuck these things in your heart, and keep them safe. Store up heavenly treasures. Store up the ideas and plans that God has spoken into your life. There, in your heart, you store Godly treasures, for the day when you need them.