As we continue our journey through Matthew chapters five, six, and seven, we come again to the Sermon on the Mount. Last time, we reflected on Jesus’ teaching in chapter six verses 19–21 about treasures on earth and treasures in heaven. In those verses, He challenges us to recognize the fleeting nature of earthly possessions and to invest instead in treasures that will last for eternity.
This does not mean that treasure itself is evil, or that profit is somehow wrong. Rather, Jesus teaches us that true reward—the kind God values—is that which endures, cannot be stolen, and is imperishable. The things of this world, no matter how desirable, never fully satisfy. They wear out, fade away, or are taken from us. Heavenly treasures, however, endure forever. And the remarkable truth is that we can use earthly goods in such a way that they produce eternal results.
When we serve and love others in Christ’s name, when we share the good news through our prayers and witness, when we encourage one another toward spiritual growth, or when we ourselves grow in Christlikeness, we are investing in what lasts forever. Every one of us is called to a ministry of some kind. Jesus is urging us to put our treasure where it will endure.
Pilgrims and Strangers
The book of Hebrews sheds important light on this perspective. In chapter eleven, the writer lists men and women who lived by faith. In verse 13, he pauses to note: “All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.”
This verse is vital because it reminds us that God’s promises are not fully realized in this life. We may glimpse them, but their fulfillment lies ahead. Like those heroes of faith, we too must welcome the promises from a distance, living as pilgrims and exiles. When we accept that we are on a sojourn, it changes our outlook. This world is not our final home; rather, God is preparing us for something far greater.
The chapter closes with a similar thought: “And all these, having gained approval through their faith, did not receive what was promised” (Hebrews 11:39). Abraham understood this well. When he left Ur, he was looking not for an earthly city but for “a city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God” (v. 10). His heart was set on a celestial city.