“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust 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
I’ve had the privilege of being with many people as they neared death, yet I never had any of those folks tell me, “You know, Bryant, I wish I had made more money. If I’d worked harder, I could’ve made a whole lot more money.” I’ve never had anybody say, “I wish I had accomplished more.” But what people do say usually has something to do with the lament about relationships. “I wish I had done more for someone,” or “I wish I had spent more time with them.” “I wish I had focused more on the relationships that count.”
I’m sure you nodded your head while reading that paragraph. Betcha you were thinking, “I know that. Nothing new there!” Hold on a second. While everyone does seem to understand this lesson in their heads, true realization rarely seems to make it to their hearts. The fact is when people ask me, “What is the ultimate meaning of life?” I always respond one way: Ultimate meaning is found in relationships. Your most important relationship is, of course, with God, but your last moments on this earth will be so very empty if they are spent agonizing over failed relationships with people: family, friends, or those you may have wronged. Act now to assure that your last words are not regretting your relationships on earth, but praising the glory of heaven that awaits you.
