We fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary but what is unseen is eternal.
Luke 12:48
The things that are valued in this world – fame, material possessions, achievement, money, sex, power – are not what God values. In fact, it could be argued that the things that we tend to rank as most significant are upside down as compared to what’s important to God. I needed to add that analogy so I could show this cute picture of my grandson upside down😊. But when you think about it it’s true.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus shares some descriptors for those that are blessed including:
- The poor
- The meek
- Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness
- The peacemakers
- Those who are persecuted because of righteousness
Doesn’t sound much like people we value and respect, does it? So, will celebrities and CEOs hold a higher status in Heaven like they do in this world? Sure doesn’t sound like it. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with achievement, wealth, fame, etc. They are gifts from God but we should live to create an eternal legacy, not an earthy one. When we view life as a preparation for eternity, our values change and we place a higher premium on relationships and character instead of fame, wealth, and achievement (Rick Warren).
REFLECT
What could you do to incorporate more of an eternal perspective?
