Matthew 13:44-46
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
Our hearts are like our stomachs; they don’t understand finances. When we want something, our hearts don’t care how much it costs. In the same way, when we’re hungry, we can be just as content with a $1 hotdog as with expensive prime rib in a fancy restaurant. Things in this world are worth whatever people will pay for them. A few dollars’ worth of oil paints can become “priceless” when applied to canvas by a true master. Did you know the Mona Lisa is insured for nearly $1 billion? Is anything in this world worth that much? I guess it depends on whether you are listening to your heart or to your accountant!
Jesus told us that the kingdom of heaven is more valuable than buried treasure. Knowing God and being loved by him is priceless. The hope of eternity in God’s glorious presence is worth more than fine pearls, gold and diamonds. None of this world’s treasures can compare to God’s perfect, unending love. The amazing truth about the kingdom of heaven is that Jesus paid the price for us to enter. We don’t have to break the bank or sell our property or work all our lives to pay for a ticket. Jesus gives it to us for free.
These two little parables aren’t about putting a monetary value on the kingdom of heaven, but Jesus is telling us how much knowing God is worth. Nothing in this world can compare. When our hearts behold the glory and grace of God through Jesus Christ, we desire just a taste of heaven more than all this world’s luxury. Faith fills our hearts, and we come to understand the priceless worth of knowing God.
Thank You, Lord, for allowing me to know You and to taste Your goodness. I love You more than anything this world can offer. Protect me from the temptation of material things, and fill my heart with the hope of seeing You face-to-face in heaven. I pray in my Savior’s name. Amen.
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Pastor Mike Mirakian
