Recently something spurred my thoughts to a classic movie I recall from childhood. The movie, though probably lesser known than some, made a lasting impression upon me and painted images that I can still envision through the closed eyes of my imagination. It is entitled “It Grows on Trees,” staring Irene Dunn, circa 1952. As I recall (forgive me if I confuse some of the plot as it has been a few years since I have seen it) Irene Dunn purchases two trees to plant in the backyard. She becomes very excited when she notices the trees are budding potential blossoms. One morning while performing her household duties, she notices a $5 bill floating through the kitchen window. In grateful amazement she retrieves the bill thankfully and saves it in the kitchen cookie jar to aid with the family’s recent financial crisis.
The plot thickens as more bills are retrieved, and the realization that these bills are originating from the trees planted in the backyard. Comedic turns ensue as the local bank, IRS, her husband, and the town get involved in what is a very entertaining story. Eventually the trees become sick and the bills begin to wither; not only the ones on the trees but the ones she has deposited in her cookie jar, the bank, and at local department stores.
Often, I have thought, wouldn’t it be nice to have a money tree? But even with a gift as valuable as a “Money Tree” there are always draw backs. In the movie there is disagreement among the family regarding how they should use the money? Is it counterfeit? Is it ethical to use it? It ends up being more of a headache than just dealing with the family’s financial woes.
Promised quick fixes, free gifts, and monetary gain often add to our stresses rather than relieve them. Clinging to earthly trappings that look green with abundance and completeness, end up as withered leaves proving deficient and empty. The treasures we think we desire rarely pay dividends worthy of their propaganda.
God’s Word says it best.
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust[e] destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matthew 6:19-21, ESV)
The greatest gift, the supreme treasure lies at the foot of the Cross of Jesus Christ. By receiving His gift of salvation, we are given something of greater value that will never wither, decay, or rust away. As we submit our lives to His divine providence His workings in us prove most precious, the highest treasure of all.
As we continue in our Advent celebration and look toward Christmas may we seek the most extravagant gift this season – JESUS CHRIST! A gift we cannot earn, merely receive it gratefully. Augustus Toplady says it best in the second stanza of “Rock of Ages.”
Not the labors of my hands, can fulfill Thy law’s demands; These for sin could not atone; Thou must save and Thou alone: In my hand no price I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling.
Seek the greatest treasure! Merry Christmas!
Pastor Keith