When my oldest was really young, he had made me a necklace at school. I proudly wore it, like an expensive piece of jewelry. For to me it was a priceless work of art and I was honored to wear it. Not too many years ago, my youngest son used to always take the time to pick me dandelions and I would proudly put them on display. For I knew that he wanted to gift his mom some flowers and that was all that he could offer. When my husband and I were first married we could not afford actual expensive wedding bands. However, the one he had placed on my finger was worth more than any expensive band could offer. For we knew that the love that flowed from it was worth more than the finest jewel. For what makes a gift special is not on the appearance or the cost or the thing itself; but really the meaning behind it all and most of all, the special person who is the real gift.

   Friend in a world that places so much emphasis on things, may we remember that it is not in the item itself; but the love that is behind it. May we put love first in our life; both for God and people. For real treasures are not in expensive things or material possessions; but in people and most of all, God. Love is something that no amount of money can buy. So where do we place our treasure; on things that leave us empty or on love that fills our hearts and makes us whole.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Matthew 6:19-21 NIV

“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.