1 Peter 1 : 3-9 / Mark 10 : 17-27
Qin Shi Huangdi (秦始皇) (259 BC – 210 BC), was king of the Chinese State of Qin from 246 BC to 221 BC during the Warring States Period. He became the first emperor of a unified China in 221 BC. He ruled until his death in 210 BC at the age of 50.
After his death, he was buried in an underground tomb, along with his treasures and also his servants (buried alive) as was the practice in those times
There was even a "Terracotta Army" to guard the tomb of the emperor.
When his tomb was discovered, his remains and the remains of those who were buried with him were taken aside for further analysis.
One of the archaeologists was examining the remains and he seemed to be looking for something.
When he was asked what he was looking for, he replied: I am looking to see if there is any difference between the bones of Qin Shi Huangdi and that of his slaves. I don't see any.
We may think it is an obvious comment, but yet it is a chilling fact that whatever we have now, will ultimately remain here on earth.
And when we come before God, we are no different from the person next to us, whether be it in terms of merit or credit.
We can't even earn heaven or eternal life. But it is given freely to us.
The 1st reading would even say that God promised us an eternal inheritance that is being kept for us in the heavens.
But while we are here on earth, we must treasure this eternal gift and inheritance.
Because where our treasure is, there our heart will be.