The pursuit of treasure involves human attempts to shore up security in an unstable world. Life is insecure in almost every way. Accidents happen. Climate changes. Others disappoint. Wars erupt. Pandemics surprise. Health falters. I, even I, do not live up to my own expectations.
Jesus, priceless Treasure,
Source of purest pleasure,
Truest Friend to me!
Long my heart hath panted,
Till it well-nigh fainted,
Thirsting after thee!
Thine I am, O spotless Lamb,
I will suffer naught to hide Thee,
Ask for naught beside Thee.
We have little control over the chances and changes of life. The precariousness of human existence haunts us into efforts to make ourselves secure. We seek security in things that promise to shelter us from harm and preserve our lives from danger. Where do you find security?
In Thine arms I rest me;
Foes who would oppress me
Cannot reach me here.
Though the earth be shaking,
Every heart be quaking,
God dispels our fear;
Sin and hell in conflict fell
With their heaviest storms assail us;
Jesus will not fail us.
There is One in whom your life is secure. Jesus Christ is treasure unlike all others. The Gospel of God's mercy in Christ Jesus secures you now and forever. Our Lenten journey leads us to the cross and resurrection, treasure that secures you to live each day trusting in God's faithfulness.
Hence, all thoughts of sadness!
For the Lord of gladness,
Jesus, enters in.
Those who love the Father,
Though the storms may gather,
Still have peace within;
Yea, whate’er we here must bear,
Still in Thee lies purest pleasure,
Jesus, priceless treasure!
Hymn text by Johann Franck
