I was driving through the rain and passed a house that had burned to the ground. There were only walls and a floor left, and they were black from soot. I felt a pang for the family. What would I do if I suddenly lost every material thing? And where would I go? Do you start with replacing underwear and toothpaste, or your medicine, or clothing? Do you stay in a shelter, or with friends and family? And for how long? I said a prayer for the family and drove to my home…that was still standing. Something that family wouldn’t be able to do anymore – not to the home that they lost, anyway. Even a new one would never be the same. My mind travels toward the many still recovering from hurricane Helene. So much material loss on top of life and community.
The next day, I got a call that a church friend of mine lost her home in a fire. She and her family were out for the day, so no human life was lost, and the firefighters were able to save their dogs. Because they were out, their cars and phones were also saved from the flames. Lives and “things” that remain for which to be thankful. And yet…how do you not grieve the loss of memories made here, the mementos that incite pleasure from times past, the valuables that spark joy for you, or signify a memorable person or marker in your life? What of the things you put hours of time into making, creating, or building, for your or loved ones’ enjoyment. Even a view through a spiritual lens can be painful: what about Bibles, and journals, and tangible encouragements that aid our faith walk? I would be devastated if I lost those things.
The Lord brought to mind His direction: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19-21
Complete loss is a true test of where our treasure is. I realize how I fail miserably in keeping my focus on heaven when I lose or misplace ONE special item. But ALL? I postulate that ONLY focusing on Jesus would allow me the emotional capacity to overcome the loss, the ability to evaluate what can/needs to be replaced, and the acceptance of what is simply gone from this life. Following that, ONLY Jesus could provide persevering strength to rebuild and restore a “home”.
How does Jesus fill me with what I need to endure? He behaves the way His person and character promises to, and the way He has demonstrated over and over! He promises to never leave or forsake us (Joshua 1: 5,9, Deuteronomy 31: 6,8, Matthew 28:20, Hebrews 13:5). He promises that when we are tempted to cling to the things of this world, He will give us the strength to bear it (I Corinthians 10:13, Hebrews 4:16). He has shown His faithfulness for generations, but also through the years of my life. We may not be privy to the “whys” behind the tough treks, but with eyes and heart focused on Him and eternity, we can live in peace knowing we are carried by the God who loves us and gives us exactly what we need to get through each day.
Best of all, Jesus fills us with HOPE! He reminds us that heaven is actually our home and what we give up here is considered rubbish in comparison to the spectacular greatness of heaven, with Jesus, forever! (Philippians 3: 7-8, 13-14, 20-21)
