The Gospel According to Matthew 13:44-46
Jesus said to his disciples: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 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.”
Reflection: Do you remember your first car that you owned? I do! I had a job and worked all summer to save up enough money to buy one. It was a 1954 Oldsmobile and yes, I know, I just dated myself, but I was so proud of my accomplishment. At first, I kept it in the driveway at my mom’s house and only drove it back and forth to high school. I kept it shiny and waxed and just admired it, for what it represented to me. I seldom took it anywhere other than school. Before too long it became a burden because I had not learned to enjoy it for what it really was which was simple transportation.
Today Jesus tells his disciples to compare the Kingdom of Heaven to great treasures that they could easily relate to. But if you have this great treasure, what good is it if you can’t share it with others. Who will know you had something special if you bury it, it simply becomes part of the dirt. Throughout Jesus’ time on earth, he continually tells everyone about His Father’s kingdom as well as showing everyone He encounters love and compassion. Sharing the extras that we have with our brothers and sisters who have very little or nothing. That is how we share the treasures that await us in God’s kingdom or be willing to give others a ride any where they want to go with the windows down.
Action of the Day: Once a year go through and unbury your treasures. This could include gently used clothes, or food and donate them to a local shelter, St. Vicente DePaul, Catholic Charites, or The St. Frances Center of Long Beach.
Audio Reflection:
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