“I” Marks the Spot

By Jesse LeMay

                Searching for and finding hidden treasure is something that has always fascinated people. There are all sorts of stories which date back hundreds and even thousands of years about vast fortunes being either lost or intentionally buried somewhere. Such treasures are out there just waiting for someone to find them. In pirate legends, there is always a map guiding the seeker to the treasure. At the final destination an “X” marks the spot where the awaiting goods lie. All one has to do is follow the “X” and the treasure is theirs. Following the “X” and acquiring this new-found wealth would be life changing. As appealing and exciting as such a discovery might be, there is however, an even greater and more impactful treasure out there for all people.

                The Apostle Paul speaks of the gospel of Christ as the “Light of the glory of God,” and a “treasure” (2 Corinthians 4:3-7). This treasure is hidden to some because their eyes are blinded, keeping them from seeing the light of the gospel. Despite being hidden to such people, God’s invaluable treasure can be found easily by all who are searching. Unlike the “X” marking the spot to the buried pirate treasure, “I” marks the spot for the treasure of the gospel. Scripture says, “we have this treasure in earthen vessels, … always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our body” (4:7-10). Christians are the location of the treasure! We, you, I, are the end of the map.

                In order for others to find this incomparable inheritance which God has offered to everyone, they have to first come to us. It is hard to understand why our Lord would place such a valuable item in something so frail and faulty at times; nonetheless, you and I are where He has buried His eternal treasure. While it is true that there is the written word, we are to be those who live out and share that word. Uncovering some lost pirate treasure may temporarily change your life; however, leading others to discovering the precious treasure of the gospel will change eternity. So, never forget that for those searching the map for God’s treasure, “I” marks the spot!