July 30, 2023 Reflection

Jesus shares three parables: the hidden treasure, the pearl of great value, and the net cast into the sea. He highlights the immense worth of the kingdom of heaven, prompting a person to joyfully give up everything to obtain it. Many of us are familiar with the game of Treasure Hunt. One can easily relate the activities of this game to this parable in Matthew 13:44. Just as participants embark on a search for hidden treasures, the gospel emphasizes the value and joy of discovering something precious- heaven. For us seekers of the kingdom, the meaning and implication of this is that the kingdom of God is so valuable that losing everything on earth, but getting the kingdom, is a happy trade-off. Having the omnipotent, saving reign of Christ in our lives is so valuable that, if we lose everything, in order to have it, it is a joyful sacrifice. Therefore, the pursuit of heaven should be our greatest priority and goal in life.