Read 2 Kings 11:1-4,9-18,20, Ps. 132:11-14,17-18, Matthew 6:19-23
“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.” (Matthew 6:19-20)
We are not meant for this world. We came from another world and we are destined to return there. What is the point of building a house I will never live in? What is the point of laying up treasures in a place that is not my permanent home? What is the point of pursuing a dream that never fully materializes? Jesus says to us today, “Store up treasures for yourselves in heaven instead.”
The truth is that we can never deceive ourselves when it comes to where our treasures lie. Those who do not have accounts in a particular bank will not lose sleep if they hear that the bank has crashed. Those whose treasures are not in heaven find it difficult to contemplate the things of God
The story of Athaliah as contained in today’s first reading is one that confirms the word of Jesus to Peter on the night of his arrest: “those who kill by the sword will die by the sword.” (Matthew 26:52). Athaliah’s life speaks volumes to those who kill to acquire power placing themselves in positions they do not merit. Like any other treasure in this world, power got through ill means never lasts.
Where is your eye? In other words, where are your treasures? What are your priorities? If your eye is on what this world has to offer, then as Jesus says, your eye is unhealthy and your body is full of darkness. This explains why people get involved in all kinds of evil and are prepared to do anything just to “make it big” in this world. If your only goal in life is to “have a lot of cars and houses that you wouldn’t know which one is which” then watch out for darkness in your thoughts, words, and deeds.
Let us pray: Heavenly Father, teach me to love you with all my heart, mind, and soul and to build my treasures only in heaven. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. (Friday of week 11 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 2 Kings 11:1-4,9-18,20, Ps. 132:11-14,17-18, Matthew 6:19-23)
© Rev. Fr. Evaristus Abu