"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."
Matthew 13:44-46
In Sunday school class growing up, I learned about this parable. I was taught that it meant that the kingdom of heaven is so valuable, that it is worth giving up everything I have and am in order to find it and obtain it.
This is certainly true. After all, no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has conceived what God has in store for those who love him (1 Corinthians 2:9); and if we seek first the kingdom of heaven, all things that we may strive to get for ourselves will be given to us as well (Matthew 6:33).
However, this morning when I read Matthew 13:44-46, another side to that coin was shown to me. Instead of seeing myself digging in a field or browsing a jewelry shop, I saw Jesus doing those things. This morning, instead of being the merchant, I was the pearl. Jesus gave up everything he owned in order to purchase me. I, along with all the other members of the Church (and therefore, the Kingdom), was a treasure cache of greatest value.
This is one thing that I love about Jesus' parables. There are so many different angles to them, so many new things to see. It's mornings like these when I am glad that I still read that story that I've read and heard a hundred times. Just because I have one picture of it in my head, doesn't mean that picture is complete.
The point of all this is, we are all so precious. Jesus Christ thinks we are the most precious of things. If we are willing to accept it, it can grow to be very personal as well. As in, you personally are the pearl that Jesus saw. You inspired him to go and sell everything he had, to do whatever it took to obtain you.
That is what happened first. Now, he inspires us to give up everything we have and do whatever it takes to obtain him. It is such a beautiful cycle. Only love can see things this way. Love transcends every other desire.
But now I know it goes both ways. Thank you, Jesus.
