Scripture Reading: *Matthew 6:19–21
Don’t store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves don’t break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Six months ago, Hurricane Helene ravaged western NC with 30 inches of rain. Kristyn Pierfelice lost her husband Roddy and children Levi (11) and Ara (7) to the flood, along with their home—photos and drawings, all swept away. Holding her 1-year-old, Kristyn clung to a tree for hours until rescued; later, she found Ara’s shoe in the debris—a haunting reminder of what truly mattered.
Jesus asks: Where’s your treasure? Earthly things fade; eternal hope endures.
I. An Eternal Perspective: Treasures in Heaven
A. Matthew 6:19–20*: Earthly treasures—wealth, possessions—rust or vanish; heavenly treasures—love, generosity—last forever.
B. Matthew 25:35–36*: Feed the hungry, clothe the naked—these acts store up eternal riches.
C. Kristyn’s loss proves it: What we hoard on earth washes away; what we give to God remains.
II. Seeking First the Kingdom
A. Matthew 6:33*: “Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.”
B. Matthew 5:20*: Righteousness surpasses the Pharisees’ rule-keeping—it’s a heart transformed by love (Matthew 22:37–39).
C. Luke 12:27–28*: Trust God’s provision, like wildflowers He clothes, not our stockpiles.
III. We Are Witnesses to the World
A. Matthew 5:14–16*: “You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others” to glorify God.
B. John 17:16–18*: Not of this world, we’re sent to reflect Jesus—humble, merciful (Matthew 5:3–10)
C. Unlike the Pharisees’ greed, our lives—peace in chaos, generosity in need—invite others to Him.
IV. As We Close…
A. Kristyn’s tragedy reveals life’s fragility; Jesus points us to eternity.
B. Store treasures in heaven, seek God’s kingdom, shine as witnesses—start with one step: give, trust, share.
C. Do you need Jesus? We’re here to help.