Back-to-school shopping was a multi-step process this year. Earlier this summer, I had a free day with my 7-year-old, and we tackled her clothes shopping. She’s at an easy stage where everything is stretchy, so getting the sizing exactly right isn’t crucial. It’s a grab-and-go situation, and we were done relatively quickly.
Then came the supplies list. I know, I know—I should do this part online because going in-store is practically a life-risking endeavor. Families with large carts and multiple kids swarm the supplies section. Mass chaos! Good luck if you don’t have your red, blue, yellow, and green matching notebook and folder sets by now. You’ll just have to do without.
After surviving the supply shopping, I was ready to tackle shopping with a teenager. Armed with a medium hot vanilla latte with an extra shot of espresso and whip (probably should’ve added one more shot), we set out on our mission. The start was slow—nothing was her style. After five stores, we had managed to buy just one long sleeve shirt and a sweatshirt. This was a problem since she’d grown at least four inches and had given away all her pants. Finally, we hit the jackpot, but of course, it was at an expensive store. At that point, I was like, “Just take my money and get this kid some clothes.”
Matthew 13:44 says, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.”
When we discover something of true value, we’re willing to sacrifice our time and money to obtain it. During the shopping trip with my daughter, I sacrificed time, and once we found clothes that fit her and that she liked, I was willing to pay the price. But finding Jesus, our access to heaven, is of infinitely greater value than even the perfect pair of pants. With the busyness of the school year starting, I don’t want to forget the treasure I have in Jesus. I want Him to be my priority, even if it means sacrificing time or finances. For me, during the school year, it’s usually time. Schedules fill up quickly, and it’s easy to skip praying, reading the Bible, going to church, or meeting up with friends who encourage me in my relationship with Jesus.
Challenge: As the school year begins, make time for what truly matters. Set aside moments each day to pray, read scripture, and focus on your relationship with Jesus. What can you sacrifice to keep Him as your priority?
Comments