“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store up your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will be also.        Matthew 6:19-21 NLT

When I was young, I bought a ceramic elephant because I liked it. Elephants are one of God’s unique and unusual creations. Just like you are one of God’s unique creations! I kept it and added other elephants as I grew up and traveled to other places, some that even had real elephants!

When my children were young, they each had things that were special to them, things they liked to collect. My daughter collected Christmas Barbies. Friends gave one to her each year as long as  she wanted to keep collecting them, she has over 20! My son liked matchbox cars and “Thomas the Tank Engine” trains. He has boxes of them. Is there something that is special to you that you collect?

In the Bible verse above Jesus tells us that the things here on earth aren’t our real treasures. We should be saving up treasures in heaven where nothing can destroy them. Jesus also says that where our treasures are, that is where our hearts will be. But how do we save up treasures in heaven? The man answered, “You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind. And love your neighbor as yourself.” “Right!” Jesus told him. “Do this and you will live!” Luke 10:27-28 NLT

When we do things that show our love for God and for others, we are actually storing up treasures for ourselves in heaven! These are by far the best treasures!

Treasures in Heaven

Treasures in heaven, I love to collect.

Loving God, Jesus, and others – perfect.

I love to sing songs about God in church.

And learning about Jesus in a Bible search.

I pick some wildflowers to put in a small vase,

It is a treasure to see the smile on mom’s face!

I help dad with the trash without being asked,

He pats my back, “Thanks, son!” as I pass.

Mrs. Smith, our neighbor, is older and alone.

I visit her and take veggies we have grown,

I thank God, as I say my bedtime prayers,

For my treasures in heaven when I show I care.

This week think of ways you can store up “treasures in heaven”. Your parents can help. Just remember that when you show love to God and Jesus, and to others, you are storing up treasures in heaven. Talk with your parents about a “treasure” you stored up this week.

Love and blessings as you begin to store up your best treasures in heaven!