THE CHURCH'S TREASURE

THE CHURCH’S TREASURE

 Before being canonized as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, Lawrence was a deacon serving in Rome. When a violent wave of persecution broke out, Pope Sixtus and others were killed.  Lawrence knew it was only a matter of time before they would come for him.  As keeper of the church’s goods, he was responsible for giving alms to the poor.  At that point, he started distributing them more generously than ever.

 It wasn’t very long before Lawrence was summoned by government officials who demanded that he surrender the church’s treasure.  He replied that the church was quite rich and requested three days to get everything in order.

 When Roman officials arrived at his church, they expected it to be filled with silver and gold.  Instead, it was packed with the poor, the blind, the lame and the lepers.  “Here are the treasures of the church,” declared Lawrence with spiritual authority.  As you might expect, the officials were furious and Lawrence was summarily executed in the year 258 A.D.

 What a completely courageous and wise man!  Lawrence was absolutely right about the treasures of the church.  As the Body of Christ, we have significance and value that transcends mere economics and social standing.  It goes without saying that the greatest treasure of the church is THE HOLY SPIRIT. (II Corinthians 4:7) Nevertheless, since HE dwells within and grants us the privilege of serving as His ‘hands and feet’ in the earth realm, we, by extension and proximity, are true treasures indeed.

 My friend, who will you lovingly treasure and touch today, on behalf of your Creator?

 Sisters and brothers, be continually blessed, and please (above all else) MAKE SURE YOU ARE READY TO MEET OUR SOON COMING KING.  Maranatha!