April 21 – The Eternal Nectar of the Honeyeater

“Don’t store up earthly treasures for yourselves, which moths and rust destroy and thieves can break in and steal. But store up treasures for yourselves in heaven, where neither moth nor rust can destroy them and thieves cannot break in and steal them.” Matthew 6:19-20

The industrious honeyeater flits from flower to flower, sipping nectar and pollinating blossoms, playing a vital role in the delicate balance of our ecosystems. This tiny bird does not hoard the sweet treasure it gathers, but rather uses it to sustain its life and the lives of its offspring. In the Sermon on the Mount, the writer of Matthew has Jesus urge us to adopt a similar mindset, focusing not on accumulating temporary, earthly wealth, but on storing up imperishable treasures in heaven through acts of love, compassion, and generosity. St Francis, too, understood the fleeting nature of worldly possessions and chose instead to find his joy in serving others and caring for creation. By living with a light touch on the Earth and investing our time and resources in the well-being of all, we store up true treasures that will never fade away.

Reflection:

1. What “treasures” am I currently pursuing, and do they align with my deepest values

2. How can I use my energy and resources to create a positive, lasting impact on the world?

Prayer:

Gracious God, grant me the wisdom to discern what truly matters. Like the honeyeater, may I use the gifts you have given me to bring sweetness and life to your creation. Guide me in storing up the eternal treasures of love, compassion, and generosity.