Matthew 13:45-46
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.
"More parables!" That's the title of this section of the gospel of Matthew. Jesus loved parables. Here he is explaining what it's like when the lightbulb goes on, when you finally get it. Once you realize and embrace the gift that IS eternal life, you'll gladly and joyfully let go of everything else and you'll want to spread it here on earth as much as possible.
I bet most of us can relate to this feeling. You found the person you want to marry and you say, I'd sacrifice anything for this person. Your first, second, third… eighth child is born and you throw up your hands in surrender - I'd give it all for this child.
But have you made that decision for the kingdom of heaven? I'd like to think that I have. If the rubber hit the road so to speak, and I was faced with the decision, I'd say yep, I'd give it all. It's scary to think about having to make that choice, even on a smaller scale, like with daily sacrifices. But those times that I do struggle, I remind myself of the tiny glimpses of the kingdom of heaven that God has already given me - like the people who I love and who love me and the Church here on earth all praying and praising God together. It's beautiful, precious, and worth the cost. Let's pray today to continually rediscover the treasure we have in His kingdom and renew our commitment to sacrifice whatever God calls us to.
