Heavenly Treasures

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal"- Matthew 6:19 (NIV).

Malcolm Forbes, billionaire publicist, came up with the saying, "He who dies with the most toys wins." Compare Mr. Forbes quote to Chuck Palahniuk, novelist, who stated, "The things you own end up owning you." We won't judge Mr. Forbes, but aren't his thoughts the mindset of many people of this world? Mr. Palahniuk's quote can be applied Biblically: The people who have all those 'toys' must protect and maintain them from moths, vermin and thieves; it's ongoing enslavement that costs money, time and relationships. The rich young ruler, who followed all the laws, asked Jesus what else he needed to do to secure his heavenly reward." Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me" (Matthew 19:21). He doesn't mean for us to sell all we possess, Jesus wants us to free ourselves from worldly materialism and to be generous to the poor. In humility, we are to use our possessions to help others, to look to the interests of others (Philippians 2:3-4). Mr. Palahniuk also said, "It's only after you lose everything that you're free to do anything." Holy Father, help us to become free so we can follow Jesus.