Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
April 10, 2023
Matthew 13:44-46
44 “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure that somebody hid in a field, which someone else found and covered up. Full of joy, the finder sold everything and bought that field. 45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. 46 When he found one very precious pearl, he went and sold all that he owned and bought it.
Good Morning, Rejoice! Rejoice! Again, I say rejoice!
The thirteenth chapter of Matthew is an exciting collection of parables. It contains the parables of the sower, weeds, mustard seed, yeast, and this one on treasures. The chapter ends with Jesus’ encounters when he returns home and discovers that his teachings are unwelcome.
Some of us like to go thrifting, i.e.shopping at thrift stores and flea markets. It is fun to sift through things others have discarded as unimportant or even trash and see what treasures we find. I’ve read stories where people find things of significant monetary value have been discovered among these displays of junk. One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.
It’s funny how we find those totally unexpected things, like a missing piece or part of something we own. We find unique artifacts that touch us because our Grandma had one on her counter when we were growing up, and we find things that make us laugh as we consider the last time we saw or owned one.
How do we value treasures? There is undoubtedly monetary value that begins with supply and demand. The sentimental value emanates from our own attachment to an item. Within these two categories, there are many sub-categories that we might consider when evaluating an item. Would you give up everything to own a valuable object that is visually offensive to you? Likewise, would you pay excessive amounts to own something because of its sentimental value to you?
In this parable, Jesus tells us that the kingdom of heaven should be what we seek. It is before us and available for all to find, but just like those who miss something of value when sifting through the junk at the flea market, we must keep our eyes and hearts open. Only the seekers and believers will find the treasure. The pearl in the parable represents God’s Word which is available to all. The field is where we can find the Word: the Bible, the Sacraments, and time in Worship together when we actively seek God’s “pearls” of wisdom.
Don’t be the one who passes by the table because you only see junk! God’s treasures are there, waiting to be discovered by those who believe.
Blessed God, We thank you for Your blessings. Remove our blinders when we proclaim your Son as Lord and Savior. Help us as we seek your treasure. In the name of Christ, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Even those who appear unworthy on the surface are precious to God.
Don’t pass by without looking! Pastor Liz
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