Treasures In Heaven

“…but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:20)

There are always people in need near us if we are willing to look carefully. But now, during this “virus,” it is hard to miss the people who are sick, those mourning the dead, the unemployed, those whose businesses have been closed by government order, the hungry, the depressed, the weary and list goes on.  

During the recent Easter celebration, I was able to reread the passion and resurrection of Christ in all four Gospels. A very meaningful exercise to try if you have not done it. This year as I reading, I was struck by the mention in all four Gospels of Joseph of Arimathea (Luke 23:50-56). This wealthy and well-known businessman used his position of influence to persuade Pilate to release the body of Jesus to him. What a brave and courageous man! He risked his position on the Council, his business, the safety of himself and his family all to assure that the burial of Jesus was proper.  

It would have been easy for him to ignore the incident. Yet he wasn’t  thinking of himself but rather the brokenness of the situation and how to bring a sense of rightness to family, friends and followers of Jesus. Luke writes that Joseph “was looking for the kingdom of heaven.” 

During this “virus” time of trouble, suffering and brokenness, those of us who are kingdom-minded like Joseph of Arimathea, should look to lay up “treasures in heaven, (Matthew 6:19-21) where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Like Joseph of Arimathea, our acts of mercy, kindness and rightness without earthly reward are truly the treasures of heaven worthy of God’s eternal blessings.   

Global Prayer Points

Join us in prayer this week for the following requests from our Global Leadership:

Africa: Pray for the Southern and East Africa Resilience Fund being developed by a CBMC Business Leader. Pray that God would bring trustworthy financial partners interested in the well-being of these small business owners.

Asia/Pacific: Pray for all our leaders to have wisdom, discernment, strength, and resolve about what needs to be done to stop the virus and stabilize economies. Pray for the APAC online board meeting on May 16 to be a fruitful discussion. Also pray for the Saturday online prayer meetings for sharing stories and encouragement.

Europe: Pray for our friends in the marketplace to find the right approach to make Christ known as the hope for this world. Specific prayer requests can be sent to [email protected]

Latin America: Pray for protection of CBMC families and team members who are in countries that are ‘hot spots’ of the pandemic.

North America: Pray that Christian leaders would take the challenge to lead other leaders who need Jesus. Also for the finances that are needed to do ministry in Canada.