TREASURE HUNT!

Treasure hunt!

As children, we were giddy with excitement when we were handed the treasure hunt goal sheet and tools we might possibly need to search for and find all the clues. Along each clue path, there were markers which let us know we were on the right track. Often times along the way to the final and ultimate treasure, there were small prizes which just spurred us on to continue.

Once in a while, some genius adult would place a crossroad on the map. All the other clues up to the choice we had to make were supposed to help us decide which was the right way and which was the wrong way. Usually, only the older kids were given maps with crossroads.

We were always assigned a partner. It was great because there were times when the treasure hunt was at night and two flashlights were definitely better than one and someone with you made the dark a little less scary. I admit there was often giggling and sometimes screeches. The screaming was usually real because some night owl had swooped at you, or a creepy crawler was under the same rock as the next clue.

What I remember most is that the treasure hunt was as much fun as getting to the finish line and winning! There was one exception. As older preteens, if the hunt had been particularly challenging mentally and physically and the prize was not a trinket but something meaningful and lasting, then to finish was quite the reward. At the finish line or tent, there was always a feast because we were famished. There was also the creator of the hunt. It was the highest honor when they called your name – your name!

“Well done!” “Congratulations”! It was exhilarating and, if I’m honest, there might have been tears if the journey to finish had been through the woods and the briar patch.

We are not kids anymore, but we are indeed seeking the treasure. Jesus said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

We carry the treasure of Christ’s good news inside of us and we lay up treasure by doing everything as if we are on a mission from God, whether it is folding socks for your two year old or building a bridge over the Tamlang River. And oh that finish line!

There will be a feast for us and how much do our hearts long to hear, “Well done, My good and faithful servant.” The briar patches and the darkness and the scratches and bruises and swooping owls will fade away as we live whole and healed in the light of the glory of God! Eternity with our greatest treasure – Jesus Christ!