God’s treasures
by Anne Hansen
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Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys (Luke 12:33b).
Read Luke 12:32–40
When I moved to Noosa in Queensland from Loxton, South Australia, it was not just a huge move in distance, but also culturally and temperature-wise. There are things that you don’t read about when working out what to prepare for with such a move.
One issue in particular has continued to be a challenge: mould. I was not informed of the need to use products like DampRid in all wardrobes, to keep windows open for ventilation, or to maintain consistent airflow throughout the space. I was not advised to keep an eye on leather goods or wipe down wooden furniture with a mixture of clove oil and vinegar.
Additionally, I wasn’t warned about the risks of storing damp clothes or allowing curtains to get damp – mould can grow anywhere and everywhere. It damages non-leather shoes and turns leather shoes white. Mould grows in humid environments. Without constant vigilance, it can quickly get out of control.
Just as we must remain vigilant against the mould that grows on our possessions, I believe that mould can enter our lives in different ways. When we’re not diligent in joining the fellowship of our congregation, we can become lonely or isolated. When we are not vigilant in reading God’s word, we can allow the world’s words to enter our hearts and lives. A whole lot of cleaning and diligence is required to get back to God.
God has given many of us so much: possessions, health, work, home and family. But these are all things that must be cared for and nurtured for them to remain healthy.
In the verses above, in Luke 12:32, we are told that God has also given us the heavenly kingdom. The greatest of these treasures is Jesus Christ, who loves us completely, and nothing can take him away. Jesus surpasses any of our worldly treasures.
Jesus came to give us life and help us live lives that are worthy of God’s love and that produce the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. I appreciate that mould cannot grow on these gifts. These treasures cannot be kept to ourselves, so let us share and show others the love that has been given to us. Give your heart to God and rely on his heavenly treasures. Be diligent and vigilant!
Thank you, Lord, for the amazing gifts you have given me. Help me to grow the treasures of heaven in my heart and rely on Jesus as my heavenly treasure. Amen.
For 19 years, Anne has been the Lutheran Tract Mission Development Officer. She lives in Noosa with her husband, Mark (a pastor), has three grown children – Jonah, Christian and Emma – and is a proud new mother-in-law to Brooke. She enjoys walking, reading, gardening and playing pickleball.
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