Yesterday, Pastor Lynne referenced Matthew 6:19-24 and preached on the importance of bringing heaven to Earth. In this passage, Jesus speaks of the importance of setting our minds and hearts on the things of God, rather than the things of the world. He emphasizes the impermanence of the things of this world, and how they do not last forever. He also reminds us that only by storing up riches in heaven will we be able to enjoy true and lasting joy.
What does Jesus mean by the impermanence of the things of this world?
Jesus tells us that the things of this world are impermanent, but the things of heaven are eternal. The word “impermanent” can mean: ‘failing to last or being short-lived’. It can also mean: ‘unreliable’ or ‘unsteady’. Money, relationships, and jobs come and go. They are unreliable, unsteady, and not always trustworthy. They may fail to last or be short-lived. They often fail to provide the joy and fulfillment that we desire and deserve.
“Treasures in Heaven?”
But the things of Heaven are eternal, reliable and trustworthy. They provide the joy and fulfillment that we desire and deserve. They are steady and reliable. They are something that we can always rely on and trust. They are the things that we can bring to Earth as Jesus suggests in this passage.
How do we lay up treasures in Heaven?
We lay up treasures in heaven by imitating the life of Jesus. Jesus lived a life of generosity, kindness, love, and caring for others. He was generous with his time, gifts, talents, and resources. Jesus healed the sick and the broken, fed the hungry and was kind and compassionate to everyone. Jesus gave of himself when he died on the cross for us. He loved everyone, even His enemies!
Jesus' life is an example for us so that we can do the same. When we live as Jesus lived, we too bring heaven to Earth by showing generosity, kindness, compassion, and sacrificial love to everyone around us.
Conclusion
In Matthew 6:19-24, Jesus instructs us to lay up for ourselves treasures in Heaven, rather than here on Earth. He speaks of the importance of setting our minds and hearts on the things of God, rather than the things of the world. He emphasizes the impermanence of the things of this world, and how they do not last forever. He reminds us that only by storing up riches in Heaven will we be able to enjoy true and lasting joy. In this passage, Jesus gives us an important lesson on how to live a life of abundance and fulfillment by pursuing eternal treasures, not worldly ones.
How will you bring heaven to Earth, and store up eternal spiritual treasures in heaven?