Enduring Treasures: Investing in What Lasts

“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” —Matthew 6:20

This year’s stewardship theme, Enduring Treasures, invites us to consider what it means to “take hold of the life that really is life.”

In 1 Timothy 6:17–19, we are called to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, “thus storing up for [ourselves] the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that [we] may take hold of the life that really is life.”

This is the work of investing ourselves—our time, talents, treasure, and all that we are—not in the fleeting things that reflect the values of this world, but in the enduring things that reflect the values of heaven. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus offers a similar challenge: “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes” (Matthew 6:20).

So often, we become distracted by what is immediately before us. We may come to believe that our careers, possessions, or standing in society are what create a fulfilling life. But within the life of the church, we glimpse the truth of Jesus’ words.

We find enduring treasure in the blessing of our children—in hearing their laughter and listening as they ask profound questions such as, “Who is God?” These moments remind us that passing on the faith is one of the fundamental gifts God entrusts to us.

The fellowship we share at The Brick Church is also a reflection of the kingdom of God. Our eternal joy is to gather with all the faithful before the throne of heaven. Each time we come together as a congregation, we experience a glimpse of that heavenly life.

We carry these memories and sacred moments with us, both at church and at home. A child is baptized. Two people are joined in marriage. A beloved member is commended to the Church Triumphant. In these moments, we gain greater clarity about what we truly desire from life—and what God desires for us.

The first question of the Westminster Shorter Catechism asks, “What is the chief end of humankind?” The answer is: “To glorify God and enjoy God forever.”

This disposition helps us focus on what truly matters. As Christians, we find joy in God through serving others and giving ourselves away. Jesus teaches that those who seek to preserve their lives will lose them, but those who give their lives for his sake will find them.

One of the great gifts of The Brick Church is the opportunity to serve one another within this congregation and then to go beyond these walls to serve a hungry and hurting world. In doing so, we reflect the life Jesus led. As we become more like him, the image of God within each of us shines more brightly.

Storing up treasures in heaven means developing habits and practices that create opportunities for us to see heavenly light shining through the ordinary moments of our lives. Through worship, fellowship, generosity, service, and love, we take hold of the life that really is life.