MOTH AND RUST DESTROYING THE TREASURE
In ancient times, before the advent of modern banking systems and secure storage facilities, the wealthy often hid their treasures in their homes, fields, or caves. However, these hidden treasures were not immune to the ravages of time and nature. Two significant threats to these stored riches were moths and rust.
MOTHS
In the past, fashion trends did not change as frequently as they do today. Wealthy individuals often preserved expensive garments as part of their treasure. These garments were often dyed with costly colors and embroidered with gold and silver, as described in Job 27:16. However, these precious clothes were vulnerable to moths, small pests that destroy fabric and certain materials. The Bible mentions the destructive power of moths in several passages, including Job 13:28 and Isaiah 50:9 and 51:8. Moths feed exclusively on animal fibers such as wool, fur, silk, feathers, felt, and leather, which contain keratin – a protein they can digest. Thus, high-cost garments kept for a long time would eventually be destroyed by moths.
Additionally, pests could destroy grain and corn kept in reserve for extended periods. For instance, Joseph stored grain as a treasure during the seven-year drought in Egypt (Gen 41:47-49). How he managed to protect the grains from pests for over seven years remains a mystery.
RUST
Rust, a form of corrosion, is another natural process that can destroy treasures. Corrosion occurs when materials, particularly metals, come into contact with air, water, gases, acids, or alkalis, leading to a change in their composition. Rust is the best-known form of corrosion, and it can damage metals, causing them to lose their original color, functionality, and value. James writes about the impermanence of earthly wealth: “Your wealth has rotted away, your clothes have become moth-eaten, your gold and silver have corroded” (Jm 5:2-3).
BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE ON TREASURES
Jesus addressed the futility of storing earthly treasures in His Sermon on the Mount. He taught, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Mt 6:19-21).
This teaching emphasizes the transient nature of material wealth and the importance of focusing on eternal treasures. Earthly treasures, such as money, possessions, and status, are temporary and vulnerable to decay and theft. In contrast, heavenly treasures are eternal and secure.
Catholic Teachings on Treasures
Catholic teachings align with Jesus’ message about the impermanence of earthly wealth and the importance of spiritual riches. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) emphasizes the need to detach from material possessions and focus on spiritual growth and charity. It teaches that true wealth lies in the love of God and neighbor and that material wealth should be used to serve others and advance God’s kingdom (CCC 2443-2447).
REFLECTION
For Christians today, the message is clear: we should not place our trust in material wealth, which is fleeting and vulnerable to destruction. Instead, we should focus on accumulating spiritual treasures by living a life of faith, charity, and service to others. By doing so, we align our hearts with God’s eternal kingdom and ensure that our true wealth is secure in heaven.
In conclusion, while moth and rust can destroy earthly treasures, the spiritual treasures we store in heaven are imperishable. Let us heed Jesus’ teachings and prioritize our spiritual growth and service to others, ensuring that our hearts are set on what truly matters.