Matthew 13: 44-46
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
“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.
The columbine had finished blooming.
The other day, I cut back the columbine, an early spring
bloomer, and opened up a spot in the front of my garden. With the spent flowers
gone, the pink and white flox shined and flowered to their fullest, but the
best surprise, hidden under the other plants, was the sweet little pinkish-red
begonia. I had no idea this little guy even existed. He hid under the other
plants, yet his blossom pushed forth.
I admit, my heart did a little flip-flop of excitement when
I spied the tiny thing. I'd thought about buying some begonias and planting
them this year, but never did, so this little one brought me unexpected joy. I
hope it grows and continues to bloom this summer.
Like my hidden treasure in the flower bed, the kingdom of
heaven is a gift to us. I didn't buy it, but Jesus did. He's the one who buys
the field, in the parable, so He can share the treasure with the people who love and believe in Him.
The same with the pearls. Jesus gave everything so that we
could be part of the kingdom of heaven. I can't buy my way into salvation or
heaven, but Jesus can and did. He traded His life for mine because He loves so
much. When I spied the little begonia, I was reminded of Jesus' great love and
His gift of eternal life. His gift is free for anyone who wants it.
Seek Jesus and receive His treasure.