From today’s Scripture: “For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.”—Mt 6:21

When I read this Scripture the creature Gollum and his “precious” from the Lord of the Rings comes to mind.

In the Lord of the Rings, Gollum was a hobbit named Sméagol. One day, Sméagol’s cousin finds the ring of power. Sméagol, wanting possession of the ring, kills his cousin.  He calls the ring “my precious.” As time goes by, the ring possesses Sméagol. He becomes the disfigured creature called Gollum. His life is all about protecting this treasure. It ultimately leads to his own demise.

Jesus is warning us about this type of treasure that consumes us and prevents us from seeking the treasure that keeps us close to him. We find the treasures we need in prayer, Scripture, the sacraments, helping others, and spreading God’s love. When these become precious to us, our heart is where it needs to be — with him.

Let us pray: Lord, increase my desire to seek only the treasure that leads me to you.  Remove all those things in my life that are obstacles keeping me from you.

Today’s author is Sister Darlene Presley, Mother Superior of the Glenmary Sisters.

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