“Do not accumulate for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and devouring insect destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But accumulate for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and devouring insect do not destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Into the Text
This week we’re studying another important aspect of the Lenten season: charity. Charity is a crucial aspect of our faith, and in this season we see how it connects with what Christ has done for us. Similar to fasting, charity is a way we empty ourselves of things that pull us away from God, specifically money and possessions. Charity, or giving, expresses our faith and represents the way we empty ourselves to be filled by Christ.
The author of Psalm 49 warns us against the dangers of loving money. For even though our lives on earth may seem more comfortable or in our control when we have a lot of money, it brings us no benefit eternally. He warns against the dangers of living only for wealth and the destruction that brings.
Jesus taught over and over how important it was to follow Him and not be attached to one’s wealth. Many wealthy people wanted to follow Him but were unwilling to give up their wealth or possessions. Jesus instructed His followers to store up treasures in heaven, not on earth.
We’ll look more at the importance of charity this week, but at the heart of charity is our relationship with money. If we are too attached to our wealth, giving will feel like an incredible sacrifice. However, when we recognize that all blessings we have been given—especially financial blessings—are from God alone, we are more willing to give those things away to bless others.
Charity is one way we empty ourselves so we can be filled by Christ. When our treasures are in heaven and not on earth, our hearts will follow. Let’s be willing to empty ourselves through charity and allow God to fill us back up with Himself.