By Heidi Harvey

 

 

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls,
who, on finding one pearl of great value,
went and sold all that he had and bought it.” ~ Matthew 13:45-46

True Treasure

Barbara Morgan LOVED the passage about the “pearl of great price,” and reading it today made me smile thinking of her. As a favorite professor of Catechetics, she knew how to guard and teach about the treasured “Deposit of Faith” as if her life depended on it.  

What is the Deposit of Faith, you ask? As Catholics, we believe the Deposit of Faith is the Truth found in both Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition, and together they encompass the “Good News” of Jesus, our Treasure.   

Today’s first reading from Jeremiah says, “When I found your words, I devoured them; they became my joy and the happiness of my heart.” Barbara lived out that verse because she had found the pearl.

Pearls, Joy, Happiness

After asking myself, what is a pearl in my life that makes me want to go out with that kind of joy and happiness, I decided it is finding Jesus in my morning prayer. To my amazement, it has become easier to jump out of bed before the sun rises, to spend time with Him. This treasured time is worth sacrificing sleep in exchange for His joy and peace.   

There is no doubt COVID has helped many of us have a new appreciation of the pearls of the Mass, the Sacraments, the Rosary, and the promises of God in His Word. After not having these treasures for so long, we know their value.

Finding the Kingdom of God isn’t always easy. It will require sacrifices and things we need to give up or “sell” for it. This heavenly tradeoff becomes our currency, helping us find and keep the prize. I may be called to “sell” some comfort in my life or my pride or self-reliance. Maybe it is my fear of stepping out or doubt that God could use me. I have a lot I could “sell back” and leave behind for the Kingdom of God.  

What about you?  

Prayer

Lord, help me find the pearl of great price that is in your Word and in our Catholic Tradition – remembering you are our Ultimate Treasure.
Help me “sell” everything that holds me back from loving and serving you with the greatest joy.

Call to Action

Pray about what the Lord is asking you to “leave behind” right now to find the fullness of treasure in Him and His Truth. How will you share your joy with others?

 

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