A Storeroom of Old and New Treasures
Scripture Reading — Matthew 13:51-52
“A disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old.”
“Have you understood all these things?” Jesus asked his disciples. This question is meant for us too. Have we understood all that Jesus has spoken about the kingdom of heaven?
After the disciples say they have understood, Jesus tells them that a disciple in the kingdom of God is like the owner of a house.
In first-century Israel, the owner of a house was the patriarch who took care of his whole family and his entire household, including all the servants who lived under his roof. This owner was responsible for providing whatever was needed for his whole household to prosper and flourish.
If we think of the Scriptures as a storeroom, we can quickly see that its old treasures are time-tested lessons. But what are the new treasures? Well, in Matthew 5:17 Jesus states that he came not to abolish the law but to fulfill it. And in his Sermon on the Mount he ramped up the expectations of the law’s commands.
Jesus reveals the heart of God the Father, who wants his children to live well and flourish. So he reminds us that it is our turn to use both the old and new treasures from his storeroom.
In what ways can you do that today?
Jesus, we seek your wisdom as we take on the responsibility of sharing your new and old treasures with the world around us. Help us to support the flourishing of the world with those treasures. Amen.
About the author — Dale Melenberg
Dale Melenberg is a second-career pastor. He received a theology degree through Calvin Theological Seminary and a doctorate of ministry degree at Fuller Theological Seminary. He is married to Gloria, and together they have raised three sons and are enjoying their four grandchildren. Growing up in an immigrant community shaped Dale’s view of family, church, and community in a profound way that continues to inform his life-view toward kingdom living with God, neighbors, and the creation.
Start your day with quick daily devotions.
See God's love, power, presence, and purpose in your life every day!