300 Gold Bars
A now-former CIA agent aptly named David Rush is believed to have stolen more than 300 gold bars from his workplace. The loot, worth more than $40 million, was recovered by authorities from his home, and the agent was charged with criminal theft of public money. According to authorities, the crime took place over several months and was conducted under the ruse of “work-related expenses.” Rush is also accused of exaggerating his education and job qualifications, and awaits prosecution.
Analysis and eternal perspective: This story could be the plotline for a movie. Gold bars, the CIA, a heist from the federal government, falsified credentials—it all feels larger than life and too outlandish to be true.
Honestly, for those of us who don’t work in the intelligence space, it is also staggering to consider a work environment where 300 gold bars is a realistic request for “work-related expenses.” That’s just a bit beyond the periodic replacement of a laptop or a printer!
What a waste, as well! Despite the enormous monetary value of the stolen goods, all of it is earthly treasure that will rot and pass away one day (Matt. 6:19-21). It is temporary and fleeting, and those whose hearts are set on it will be catastrophically compromised.
Instead, lay up treasure in heaven! How? It is pretty easy, actually!
Feed someone.
Befriend someone.
Clothe someone.
Care for someone.
Visit someone.
These simple instructions from Matthew 25:35-40 are far easier to follow than acquiring 300 gold bars! Yet the payoff is infinitely higher and yours forever!