The Treasure of Your Heart

August 12, 2023

Luke 12:32-34 | I John 3:16-18

Wrestle with it a bit:

Who is Jesus talking to here? Selling what you own and giving it to those who need the money. Is this not for all of us? What if we’re the ones in need? Aren’t we all, in some fashion, in need? (Okay, there’s a percentage, even as slight as it may be, who is not in need.)

What is need?

What are possessions?

Is this treasure stored in the Kingdom of Heaven - is that a now thing or a later thing?

Regardless of how we wrangle the above questions, the conclusion is pretty clear, and full of truth: what we love, value, take care of…what we possess, is where our heart resides.

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Luke 12:32-34

“Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights in giving you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to those in need. Make for yourselves wallets that don’t wear out—a treasure in heaven that never runs out. No thief comes near there, and no moth destroys. Where your treasure is, there your heart will be too.”

I John 3:16-18

This is how we know love: Jesus laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. But if someone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but refuses to help—how can the love of God dwell in a person like that?

Little children, let’s not love with words or speech but with action and truth.

Prayer

God,

Honestly, Jesus’ command to sell my stuff and give the money to the poor is hard to figure out. I’m really not just trying to make excuses. I think I’m a compassionate person most of the time. Even generous.

But to what level do I see all my stuff? If I sell everything - the vehicle I own and the place I live - won’t I just become the one in need?

Surely you mean for some kind of boundaries here, no?

Regardless, I don’t want to be stingy. I don’t want money or things to possess me. I do want to see others in need helped.

So help me figure this out by living day by day in the circle of your love, compassion, and generosity.

By your spirit & in Christ,
Amen.