I’m reading a book called Primal, by Mark Batterson. I love the way he writes. Two of the books that have had a giant impact on me were written by him. They are In a Pit With a Lion on a Snowy Day and Wild Goose Chase. Great stuff.

Anyway, I just read and reread a quote in Primal. Batterson quotes an author named Gary Thomas:

“Thinking about eternity helps us retrieve [perspective]. I’m reminded of this every year when I figure my taxes. During the year, I rejoice at the paychecks and extra income, and sometimes I flinch when I write out the tithe and offering. I do my best to be a joyful giver, but I confess it is not always easy, especially when there are perceived needs and wants.

At the end of the year, however, all of that changes. As I’m figuring my tax liability, I wince at every source of income and rejoice with every tithe and offering check – more income means more tax, but every offering and tithe means less tax. Everything is turned upside down, or perhaps, more appropriately, right side up.

I suspect judgement day will be like that.”

What a perspective. Here on earth, I like to have things. I celebrate when I receive. I celebrate what I keep, what I save. In heaven, I will celebrate that which I gave away. The things (and money)I kept had temporary implications. The things (and money) I gave away have eternal implications.

Keep it and celebrate for a few years or maybe decades, or give it away and celebrate forever. Which should I choose?

Matthew 6:19-21

“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.