More on the Treasure

Eternal life is far more than "pie in the sky by and by when I die." It should be very real to us now, in this life. Eternal life is something we have in us, and not even physical death can sever it. 

Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or besetting sins? Is your life out of control? Have you lost a job or are you shouldering the workload of those who have? Well, then listen to the words of Jesus: "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) The one overarching command in the Bible, which is also a wonderful invitation, is to come. We come to Jesus so that his life will fill us and give us rest.

None of us like to read the parts of the Bible that talk about the wrath of God. But why is he angry? Yes, he is angered by our sins, but he also knows that left to ourselves we will act according to our nature as sinners. It's inevitable. Only his Spirit can transform us in a way that pleases him. But first we have to come to him. God grieves most over the fact that his people ignore him. "Does a maiden forget her jewelry, a bride her wedding ornaments? Yet My people have forgotten Me days without number." (Jeremiah 2:32) His children wander aimlessly, seeking contentment everywhere except the one place they will find it.

The god of Mammon has retreated for now. By no means do I want to downplay the suffering and fear that many are experiencing, but let's make sure it's not wasted. As C.S. Lewis says, pain is God's megaphone. Let the pain wake us up from our spiritual slumber, so that we may seek real, lasting treasure. 

Jesus came that we "may have life, and have it abundantly." (John 10:10) Let's resolve to accept the gift, day by day, moment by moment, not starving when we hold in our hands an invitation to the King's banquet.