Because of his moral cowardice, Pontius Pilate sought neutrality when it came to Jesus’ execution. Although he had declared the verdict of “not guilty” three times (Luke 23:22), he acquiesced to the mob demanding Jesus’ crucifixion. To relieve himself of any guilt in this utter travesty of justice, “he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, ‘I am innocent of the blood of this just Person. You see to it.’” (Matthew 27:24). Though Pilate had washed his hands, his guilt remained.
On some matters neutrality is impossible.
Where your treasure is is one of those matters. Amassing earthly treasure is a foolish, misspent life; amassing heavenly treasure is a wise, well spent life (Matthew 6:19-21). There’s a “day and night” difference between them (Matthew 6:22-23).
How can we be sure neutrality in this matter is impossible? Because Jesus Himself said: “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon” (Matthew 6:24).
Like all other treasures, heavenly riches are not amassed by accident. They must be purposefully and personally prioritized and laid up where moth and rust cannot destroy and where thieves cannot break in and steal.
Only one of life’s possible masters desires you to do this.
