My son Owen (you may have spotted his curls bouncing as he runs down the aisles to Sunday School) has a slight obsession with what he calls “gems.” He picks up rocks, investigates things that sparkle, and inspects my jewelry in search of something truly special. He’ll bring stones home from outings or from school, and always asks me the same question: “Is it real?”

Talk about “out of the mouths of babes!” Owen’s delight in the search for treasure, his dedication to finding gems, and his constant questioning of what is real and what is false is an important reminder for me. Am I seeking the right kind of treasures in my life, or is my distraction and passivity preventing me from spotting them? And are the “gems” in my life real, or are they simply sparkly but worthless fool’s gold?

I’m encouraged to do an inventory of my “treasures” this week, and perhaps you’re inspired to do so as well. Are there treasures – physical items, or ways that you spend your time and energy – that are all sparkle and no substance? Or conversely, are there true diamonds in your life that deserve a bit of a polish and perhaps a new setting?

I’ll be sharing more on Sunday about how Jesus encourages his followers to approach treasure and wealth. In the meantime, I encourage you to open up your metaphorical treasure chest, and see what you find!

Peace,
Amy Lajiness, Lay Preacher