Temporary Things

In my computer’s hard drive, there’s a folder called “temp” for files that are temporary—things like bills, articles, and manuals, which may be useful now but will eventually be deleted. Over time, the number of files has ballooned, even storing files from older computers for “just in case”. As a result they take up valuable space that could be used for more important files. There is a reluctance to remove this clutter because of the sheer number of files. Culling them is a time-consuming chore. So they happily accumulate, turning from temporary to permanent.

This tale of woe is admittedly trifling in the larger scheme of things, but it brings to mind that our earthly existence is meant to be temporary. Yet, we often accumulate both tangible and intangible treasures, believing that they are what defines us and what truly matters in the long run. However, Matthew 6:19-21 (NKJV) says, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Jesus’ words are not against ownership of things. Rather, He helps us focus on what is important and permanent. Earthly things, wealth, success and reputation may bring temporary happiness and security, but these can be lost in an instant. Natural disasters, like the flash floods in Valencia in late October is a stark reminder of the impermanence of life. Instead, Jesus encourages us to invest in spiritual riches that are secure and eternal.

This is echoed by Paul, who writes in 2 Corinthians 4:18, “So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

The temporary nature of human life does not diminish its value. On the contrary, it calls us to focus on what is eternal and to live intentionally to fulfil God’s individual plans for us. Jesus sums up this purpose in Matthew 22:37-39: “… You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself…”. By focusing on the eternal, we are asked to help others do likewise. As God’s children, our charge is to share His love, make a positive impact, and expand His family (Matthew 28:19).

Focusing on the permanent also reshapes our perspective on the suffering and challenges we face. Whether financial, health, relational or personal, these problems can feel overwhelming. However, we take comfort that these problems are fleeting in the light of eternity because of who we place our hope in (Romans 12:12 and Isaiah 40:31). I am especially cheered by 1 Corinthians 15:19, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.” The good news is that our hope in Christ is not limited to this life—it extends into eternity!

To conclude, it is easy to become preoccupied with what is fleeting, to fill our lives with temporary “files” that distract us from the permanent. Let us instead adopt a long-term perspective, fixing our eyes on Jesus as we make our temporary moments count towards eternity.

By brother Dion Goh