Treasure

​Step #1: Lectio / Read

Click the link below or open your Bible to the passage and read through the reading at least once, paying attention to what is happening in the text.

Matthew 6:19-23

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​Step #2: Meditatio / Meditate

Use the following meditation to help you reflect more deeply on the Scripture (you may want to read the passage again).

​I’ve heard it said before that you are defined by the people and things most important to you; that who you are is measured by what you value. While I do think that is a little to simple sometimes, there also is a lot of truth to it. Take a minute to think of some of the most important things in your life. How much of your time and energy is spent towards that? And is it worth that much time and energy. As much fun as Fortnite may be, is it more important than your prayer life? Hopefully you’d say no, but where does your time and energy go?

In today’s Gospel Jesus talks about storing up treasures in heaven instead of on earth, where they will eventually leave us. Where we spend our time shows what treasure most. Now we must ask ourselves if those thing belong in heaven or are we wasting our treasure on fleeting things. Don’t waste your treasure anymore! Enjoy the good and pure things of this world, but make sure that you truly invest your treasure in what lasts forever.

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​Step #3: Oratio / Pray

These questions are to be used to talk to God; have a conversation with the Lord about these questions and what is going on in your heart as you pray today.

Where do I store up "treasure"?

Do I value the treasures of this world over the treasures of Heaven?

​Where do I spend most of my time?

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​Step #4: Contemplatio / Contemplate

In this step, you listen. Stop talking, let God speak to your heart. You may repeat one of these short phrases to focus your mind on the Lord.

"My treasure is in Heaven."

"I love you Lord."

​"I trust your goodness."

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​Step #5: Actio / Act

In light of today's reading and your time spent in prayer with the Lord, what concrete action or actions will you take to let this encounter with the Lord bear fruit in you today?

Take a few minutes and take stock of where your "treasure" is. Do you value the things of the earth or the treasures of Heaven?

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​Smartphone Lock Screen

The following image is here for you to save and use as a background or lock screen on your smartphone or device to help you carry today's Lectio Divina with you the rest of the day.

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Today's prayer was prepared by Sean Norris, Youth Minister at Our Lady of the Wayside Parish in Arlington Heights, IL. 

If you have anything you'd like our team to pray for, please go to the page of our website called "Prayers" and let us know how we can pray for you today.