But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. (Matt. 6:20)
IT’S NOT UNUSUAL for homeless neighbors off the streets to join us for services, since we attend a downtown church. But “Archangel Derek” seemed to have special needs. He had trouble putting phrases together. He was very meek. From what we could gather, his troubles began when he lost his mom, and he seemed to be quite lost as well. Once, my husband, Steve, heard Derek hadn’t eaten yet that day, so he asked Derek to wait with me and a few others in the warmth of the church building while he got lunch for Derek. But through a series of mix-ups, Derek left while Steve was gone. When Steve returned with the meal, we drove around downtown, finally locating Derek. He was watching skaters at an outdoor rink. When he realized Steve had not forgotten him, he kept saying, “Thanks! Thanks!” over and over, until he took his first bite of lunch.
There’s sound financial advice in the Bible, especially in Jesus’ teachings. But all the advice is in the context of making the kinds of investments that fit heaven today and eternally.
The investments we make in God’s work in this life are eternal investments. I hope to see “Archangel Derek” in heaven, not just as a return on our investment, but also as a return for God’s investment in him.
Watch this week for out-of-the-ordinary opportunities to invest in God’s kingdom.
Annie Wamberg is a recent empty-nester. She is enjoying the quiet as well as gardening and traveling.
