MEDITATIONS FROM THE PARABLES OF JESUS
THE
HIDDEN TREASURE AND THE
Read Matthew 13:44-46
Jesus told these two parables, the hidden treasure in the field and the pearl of great price, in order to illustrate the great value of being a part of God's kingdom. In both of these parables, all else was sold and given up in order to possess the hidden treasure or the pearl of great price. So great are the treasures of God's kingdom that a man, when he finds these treasures, is willing to give up all else to possess them. The treasures of God's kingdom include complete forgiveness for all sins and the everlasting blessings of heaven. What can compare with these blessings?
One who, by the grace of God, comes to know of the forgiveness of sins and eternal life which God offers and gives for the sake of Christ Jesus and His atoning sacrifice on the cross will be willing to give up all else to possess these heavenly treasures. God's kingdom is an eternal kingdom, and those who have saving faith in Jesus Christ will dwell forever with Him in this kingdom. When this present world comes to an end, all that we have here will pass away. Nothing we possess in this world is even worth comparing to the eternal treasures of God's kingdom. Instead of being weighted down with all the cares and concerns of this life, let us remember the great and eternal blessings which have been won for us by Christ and are offered and given to us through the Gospel. May they be so precious to us that we willingly lay all else aside to possess them.
Jesus, priceless Treasure, Fount of purest pleasure, truest Friend to me. Ah, how long in anguish shall my spirit languish, yearning, Lord, for Thee? Thou art mine, 0 lamb divine! I Will suffer naught to hide Thee, naught I ask beside Thee. Amen. (TLH, Hymn #347, Verse 1)