Jesus’s conversations and teachings about wealth and giving always make me nervous. He doesn’t seem to be in tune with how I feel about my money and resources. In Luke 12 Jesus tells us about a rich man who built himself several barns to store all his goods for many years. Sounds like a sound financial idea. But his life is cut short and so are his chances to store up eternal treasures.

Next, Jesus tells us to look to the birds and the flowers as evidence that the Lord will care for us. I have to admit, I don’t often look at the crows in our neighborhood and think, “yep, there’s the proof that God will take care of me.” As much as I enjoy the flowers all around us at this time of year, I often fail to see them as visible reminders of the Lord’s promise to clothe and care for us.

So, I appreciate Jesus’s words that follow these examples, “Fear not, little flock, for it is God’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

I need that encouragement to be brave. To feed the poor, to care for the needy, to give up my possessions. To believe that treasure in heaven is a real thing and that it matters. I believe in solid investments and herein lies the ultimate version – investments that will bear dividends for all eternity.

I know that where your treasure is is where your heart is. I see that every day in myself and the world around me. No more pertinent words about the human condition did Jesus ever speak. Where is your heart? Take a look at your treasure, where you’re banking and investing, and you’ll gain a clue.