Heaven’s Treasures

Bible Reading: Lamentations 3:22–23; Matthew 6:19–21

“Your dress was so beautiful!” Libby exclaimed, gazing in awe at the photograph of her smiling grandparents on their wedding day many years ago. “Do you still have it?” she asked Grandma excitedly.

“It’s in the attic,” Grandma replied.

As the two of them ventured upstairs, Libby grew more eager with every step. She couldn’t wait to see the sparkling sequins, feel the soft lace, and maybe even wear the long, flowing veil.

Grandma finally uncovered the box containing the treasured white gown. She proudly lifted the cover off the box. But to Libby’s dismay, there was only a dusty, yellowed heap of fabric inside. “Grandma!” she said. “It’s so ugly!” She had no desire to try on the dress now.

Grandma grinned. “The dress certainly doesn’t look like it did in the photograph. Its beauty has faded. But it still reminds me of the day your grandfather and I promised to love each other forever. And that love has only grown stronger since the day I wore this dress.”

“Exactly,” chipped in Grandpa, who had followed the two of them into the attic. “Your grandmother looked beautiful in this dress on our wedding day. But the reason we treasure it today is not because of what it looks like. We cherish what it symbolizes.”

“Wow!” said Libby. “I guess the dress isn’t so ugly after all!”

“It makes me think of something Jesus said,” said Grandpa. “He taught that we should not waste our time chasing after all the beautiful things of this world, which will grow old and musty like Grandma’s wedding dress. Instead, we should treasure those things that will never fade away, like the love Jesus has for us, the promises He has given us in the Bible, and the forgiveness and mercy He shows us every single day.”

“Grandpa’s right,” said Grandma. “Those things were as true when Jesus died on the cross and rose again for us as they are today. Unlike my wedding dress, they will never fade away.”

How About You?

Are you eager to wear the coolest clothes, own the newest gadget, or play the most popular video game? There’s nothing wrong with enjoying the blessings God has given you, but remember that the things of this world don’t last forever. Their newness and beauty will fade. The only treasures that have eternal value are those that come through knowing Jesus—His love for you and His promise to be with you forever.

Today’s Key Verse:
Lamentations 3:22 The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus’ love and faithfulness last forever