But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19 NIV
Our daughter, Melody, is traveling with Chick Fil a and working in California which is nearly 2000 miles away. We talk regularly and facetime some. One of our interactions includes sharing prayer requests with one another. As I paused to pray for her request the other night, I had an image of a treasure box.
“Melody, the moment I started to pray, I saw a small treasure box, similar to one where you put your valuables, like rings. God was showing me that you asking for prayer and belief in prayer is of the highest value which you keep in your treasure box. You truly appreciate and believe that God hears and will answer your prayers.”
After the prayer, the image stuck in my mind. “What do I keep in my treasure box?”
For Mary, we believe that Dr. Luke, who wrote the gospel of Luke, interviewed her personally about the birth of Jesus. The details of Jesus’’ birth were relayed to him nearly 40+ years later. What he wrote down for us captures the joy and tension surrounding Jesus’ birth. We are thankful that she treasured her memories.
Some things don’t belong in your treasure box, at least not in the way that you have stored them. We have all been hurt and betrayed by others, including our closest family and friends. Those painful memories need to be forgiven, let go, so that they no longer define you. Bitterness and unforgiveness are not treasures worth holding on to. Remember Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, but he valued God’s redemption as greater than being bitter. God brings hope in the worst experiences. Let God’s healing continue for the memories which are still painful to the touch.
“What’s in your treasure box?”
- Reading the Bible. For many, they love the word of God as the finest of foods. It is both meat and dessert. “Thy words were found and I ate them”
- Sharing the love and good news of God with others. “Once I was blind, but now I see” is a joy to share.
- Talking with God – prayer. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete. John 16:24
- Fellowshipping which is hanging out with your friends. Life is found in the “one anothers”. Be mindful to include other followers into your circle of friends. It is a sad commentary for a child of God to feel alone and unappreciated
- Giving and supporting others. God loves cheerful givers and I think cheerful givers love God. Sacrificial giving with joy captures God’s personal motivation as captured in John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave…”
- Using your hands (talents) to serve and benefit others. KIndness and serving are as important to living life as breathing is for those who love to serve.
- What are some of the things you would add to your list?
For me, I love the “ah ha’s” which come during or after my time of teaching and encouragement. I enjoy seeing God’s light bring revelation to others for hope and peace. I enjoy voicing a prayer that brings God’s thoughts alive for the situation at hand.
May the things which will last for eternity flow forth from your life. 19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21.
Store the right treasures well.
Blessings Love y’all
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