Priceless

 Matthew 13:44 ESV

The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.


There's at least two ways of reading this. The first is to apply it directly to ourselves. When we discover God's Kingdom, we should realise that it is invaluable- worth giving everything up for.

Note Jesus's emphasis here. The man doesn't grit his teeth and bemoan that he's had to give everything up. He knows that it's worth it.

Another way of reading this verse is to apply it to Jesus himself. Most worldly kingdoms are inherited. King Jesus establishes the kingdom of heaven in the hearts of all who trust in him.

For the joy set before him, Jesus endured the cross, scorning its shame, and is sat down at the right hand of Father God. This parable can be read with us or Jesus as the man. I take it as both/and rather than simply either/or.

'Sovereign God, may we invest everything in your kingdom, and find in you our joy. For the honour of your name we ask, amen'.

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