When I could hardly see over the counter, I remember shopping at K-Mart. That store had everything. I was convinced that one day I would be very grown up and buy lipstick in the beauty department. I learned a lot there.
When I could hardly reach the drinking fountain using the stepping stool, I remember going to church. The creaky button and the cold water were so exciting. I was sure that this was the place for me and my family. I learned a lot there.
More than a decade ago, that church closed. Not too long ago, K-Mart closed.
What does that mean?
I have loved Jesus since childhood. Singing His praises at church, in the car, and even in the gas station just happened. He loves me. Of course, I love Him! Everyone needs to know about Jesus and I wanted to tell people.
Being in a store as a teenager, I wanted so many things. They promised to make my life better. Then I thought of Jesus Christ, Who sacrificed Himself for me. How many times had I been in that store (or any other) and been so focused on the beautiful things that I missed the most important? I was shocked at myself then, and still today. I had two realities waring in me. One longs for the things K-Mart and the earth, the other for Jesus and eternity with Him.
Pray continually. That includes while shopping. Love others. That includes the janitor at the store and the customers who are rushing for the same short line I am. If I am a Christian, my heart and mind must be His. When I follow Christ, it must include all of me.
K-marts aren’t open forever. Church buildings are vacated. We are the Church, the body of Christ. How should we be living?
“ 'Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Matthew 6:19-21 ESV
A Prayer
Lord Jesus,
Thank you for the reminder that it is You that fills my needs. I’m sorry for being caught up in the pretty things of the earth and ignoring the things that captivate your heart. Please help me to be caught up in the beauty of who you are. In Your Holy Name, Amen.
Questions to Ponder
Okay, it probably wasn’t K-Mart for you. What places have drawn your thinking to the temporary and away from the eternal?
How will you train your brain to dwell on the things of Christ instead?
