JUNE 23, Matthew 16:26

There he goes, said John as he watched the plane take off. Mr. Sim, a friend of the family and a missionary to Africa, had visited John’s family the past week. “He sure works hard, doesn’t he?” added John.

Dad nodded. “Yes,” he agreed, “but as Mr. Sim says, it’s worth it all because many people are being won for Jesus.”

As John and his family left the airport and headed back toward home, they came to a large, impressive home where many cars had pulled off the road and lots of people were milling around. Mom had read about this in the papers. “Mrs. Seetoh lived here-a very wealthy old lady who really clung to her possessions,” said Mom. “She was always afraid people would steal them from her. She died recently, and I saw in the newspaper that there was going to be an auction. Her heirs are selling everything and dividing the estate.”

“Let’s stop and have a look,” suggested John. “Okay,” agreed Dad, so they stopped to look around.

“There are some lovely things here,” said Mom as they moved through the rooms, “but even though they’re used, most of them are still too expensive for our budget!”

When they were once again on their way, Dad spoke thoughtfully. “We’ve seen quite a contrast today. Mrs. Seetoh was known for her earthly possessions. Mr. Sim is known for his service for Jesus. Two different lives - two different kinds of treasure.”

“Was Mrs. Seetoh a Christian?” wondered Beng Lee.

“Well, not as far as we know,” replied Mom, “but we can’t judge her heart, of course.”

“She seemed interested only in hanging on to all her money and possessions,” added Dad, “but all the riches and lovely things she had are of no use to her now. It’s sad to see people more concerned about their earthly welfare than about their eternal destiny.”

Thought: Do you or your parents want to have lots of money and possessions? Money and things will not save you when you’re called to stand before God.” Only Christ can save you.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, remind me that it is useless to have everything in the world but lose my soul. Help me to also share this idea with other people so they will know the truth. In Jesus’ name I ask – amen.