Treasures in heaven

Most human beings desire to be wealthy. We want to acquire wealth that last eternity.  Because of this, some people get into an endless cycle of trying to acquire wealth. You might have come across terms like “generational wealth”. They say they want to acquire wealth that their generations after them will still enjoy. I personally believe the best things you can transfer to your offspring are things like blessings, a good name, and the education your offer them while alive and not necessarily property. However, one thing is sure, when you die you don’t take anything along to the afterlife. So how do you ensure your own well-being in the afterlife? This is what Jesus shows us in the opening verse.

As can be interpreted from what Jesus says in the opening verse, we don’t need to go empty-handed when we die. We can convert earthly wealth into eternal currency by giving to the poor while alive. And we shouldn’t wait until we are about to die before doing this because that is late and of a lowwer value. It is an ongoing investment that is made during the course of your life. The poor are those you don’t expect to give you back. Those in need. Giving to a friend knowing that he or she can pay you back in kind or cash tomorrow does not qualify as giving to the poor. That’s an earthly investment. One whose reward is reaped here on earth. It becomes heavenly when you give to the poor in God’s name. In God’s name means without the desire to be praised by the recipient or to be seen by others(Mathew 6:3). The heavenly investment is one that is hundred percent secured and guaranteed. You are never worried that your heavenly wealth will be stolen. Another serious advantage of investing in heaven is that it draws our hearts to heaven since we are shareholders. The heart of every investor is where his investments are and this is no different for the heavenly investor.

It’s good to invest on earth and enjoy the fruits of your labor. However, let’s not forget to think about the heavenly kingdom and invest in it knowing that it is guaranteed to last forever and ensure our eternal comfort. Reading through the letters of Saint Paul you see that he practiced this and encouraged the churches to give for the poor in other churches. It is a practical way to express the commandment of love we have received.

Let’s thank God for the power to make wealth. Let’s pray for the grace to give to the poor and the needy.