Christian Living

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LIVING TOWARD THE FUTURE


Learn from the past, engage in the present, and live toward the future. “Do not store for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal,” Jesus cautioned. “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal” (Matt. 6:19-20).
Since Jesus warns his listeners in this regard, we can assume that storing up treasures on earth is a common practice. Moreover, our experience seems to bear this out. It not uncommonly takes the form of material possessions, while otherwise in more subtle fashion—such as cultivating a good reputation. Thus failing to recognize their transient character, and ignoring kingdom priorities.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also,” Jesus adds by way of clarification. “Jesus never said that this world was unimportant; but He said and implied over and over again that its importance is not in itself, but in that to which it leads. This world is not the end of life, it is a stage on the way” (William Barclay, The Gospel of Matthew, vol. 1, pp. 245).
How does one live toward the future? Initially, according to Barclay, by recognizing that this life is but a stage in our existence. As such, it is meant to prepare us for what yet remains when this life is terminated. We are thus encouraged not to restrict our efforts to short term incentives.
For instance, my coach thought I might have a career in professional baseball if I would pursue this goal. Were I to do so, I could matriculate to a college where my uncle served on the faculty. Instead, I chose to attend a Christian college, which at the time had only intermural sports. Since I hoped to eventually take theological training, with the prospect of serving as a pastor—thus casting life in eternal perspective.
In greater detail, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2). As was previously the case, do not uncritically conform to cultural patterns. This pertains to a relatively small percentage of cultural practices, since it is said that more than 80% are morally neutral. However, it is the more exceptional instances that prove to be the culprit.
Instead, be transformed by the renewing of your mind. As enabled by the Holy Spirit, and in accord with the teaching of Scripture. In terms of a righteous and unrelenting resolve. Accordingly, “Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers” (Psa. 1:1). The terms walk, stand, and sit being progressive, as if to confirm one in the course of the wicked.
“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.” Since he delights in the law of the Lord, it is understandable that he would be inclined to meditate on it. Thus are we reminded of the striking difference in perspective attributed to persons who regularly attend worship services, and those who seldom do so. “He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season, and whose leaf does not wither.”
Something else? As memorably expressed by Charles Wesley:
To serve the present age,
My calling to fulfill;
O may it all my powers engage
To do my Master’s will!
Those who live toward the future are called to serve. Regardless of the behavior of others, or changing circumstances. It requires that we be alert to our opportunities, and willing to embrace the cost of discipleship.
Conversely, it is a means of blessing. One feels privileged to serve. Having done so, he or she anticipates further service.
Something more? To enhance our unique potential, with varying gifts and differing experience. Since God prefers creative originals, rather than second rate duplicates.
While balancing life alone over against life together. As for the latter, following Christ into community. Thus fine-tuning relationships with the prospect for eternity.
While the topic could obviously be explored at much greater length, these are some of the thoughts that readily come to mind. Consequently, it bears repeating: learn from the past, engage the present, and live toward the future. And in doing so, be blessed and a blessing to others.

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