From Charlie Gray

Yes, I’m on the beach again. There is so much joy here. Young couples are holding hands as they navigate the ocean front. Older folks are reading books or chasing after grandchildren. The smell of the salt air and sunscreen remind you of your location. I have my 70’s classic rock playlist and kindle as companions. As always, Donna is walking and in the water with our boxer, Miss Bee.

Yesterday a family was deeply entrenched in the construction of a sandcastle. They were really into the project. They had brought all sorts of tools to assist in their endeavor. To say the least, I was impressed. As the day went on, I sat and watched in anticipation of the finished product. As the day passed their plan became a reality. They had spent much time and significant energy in their effort that produced a remarkable result.

I had moved my chair a couple of times as the waves invaded my space with the rising tide. It was around 2:00 and my google search showed high tide at 3:00. As the clock ticked away, the waves inched closer and closer towards the dunes. You know where I’m going with this story. Eventually the incoming tide destroyed their masterpiece.

Our material possessions and accomplishments in life must be celebrated and enjoyed. But we are cautioned about storing them up on earth, where they can be lost or destroyed. Instead, as followers of Jesus, we should store our treasures in heaven through service to God and others. Our acts of generosity and righteousness will remain long after our bodies are swept away by the rising tides of this world. Jesus delights in our spiritual wealth. All our material stuff is like the sandcastle and will one day be gone and forgotten. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also – Matthew 6:21