Heavenly Treasures

My Dearest Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

In today's gospel (Matthew 6:19-23), Jesus tells us, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven." I think we have heard that you can't take it with you. This is true except for one thing. The spiritual gifts that we create on earth follow us to heaven, but unfortunately so do the sinful gifts. While our money will rot on earth, the treasures we build in our soul will last for eternity. What is more important, to be wealthy on earth or to be wealthy in heaven? Only one set of treasures will transcend the gates of heaven for "where your treasure is, there well be your heart." Treasures are items that we assign great value. What treasures do you assign great value; a new car, the latest sneakers, the most up to date XBox, expensive fashions? Or does your heart value friendship, your family, time with the Lord, Mass on Sunday, or the Eucharist? Jesus offers us many heavenly treasures. These treasures are both present today and await us in future reality of heaven. The greatest treasure is the joy of knowing the living God who is all around us and ever present within us. It is also being united with kingdom of heaven.

A Simple Prayer "Lord, your word is life for us. Fill me with your light and truth, and give me understanding of your ways. Free me from all that is false, illusory, ugly, and unloving. Let my heart know only one treasure--the joy and bliss of union with you— Father, Son, and Holy Spirit."

Yours in Christ Michael Marcon