What We Treasure

What do you do out of habit? Maybe you always start the day with a cup of coffee or get in a walk around the block after dinner. Many of our habits are based on what we think is important. Habits can take us in surprising directions, either toward God or toward rival gods, priorities, or values.

In Matthew 6, Jesus asks us what we treasure. In other words, what do we truly love? The answer is revealed by our everyday actions. That’s where our heart truly is, no matter what we say on Sundays (vv. 19–21). Earthly treasures are temporary and vulnerable. By comparison, heavenly treasures are eternal and secure. Which of these would we prefer to be our “reward in full”? The second, of course.

In verses 22–23, there appears to be an abrupt change of topic. After discussing treasure, Jesus turns to a new topic: healthy versus unhealthy eyes. While at first it might seem unrelated, this metaphor is directly related to the treasure metaphor. To be “full of light” indicates that our knowledge and actions are righteous and thus please God. Eyes “full of darkness” indicate knowledge and actions that are sinful and thus dishonor the Lord. Healthy “eyes” discern and follow right teaching. They can see the foolishness of storing up earthly treasures. Unhealthy “eyes” are blind to these truths and thus pursue the wrong goals.

We must choose. Will we seek earthly treasures or heavenly treasures (v. 24)? We cannot serve both; we can have only one “master.” Earthly treasures are represented by money, given that wealth leads to the things that worldly people want most. But we can only love or be devoted to one thing. By definition or by comparison we will hate or despise the other thing. Which will it be? God or money? Heavenly treasures or earthly treasures?

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