The Gospel of Matthew, chapter 13:44

If you had one wish, like Solomon, the wise, what would it be? This is not a trick question, so be honest. Solomon was born to be a king. He wished for wisdom and he got it. What is your wish? What would you treasure more than anything else in your life? Do not wish for something utterly unattainable for that would be a fantasy, not a true wish. Wish for something well worth the risk. Now, what is it going to be?

Today’s gospel passage speaks of a great treasure that God has in store for us. All we need do to accomplish our heart’s desire is to actively seek this treasure. What is this treasure that’s worth seeking above all else? None other than the reign of God which the Lord describes as a ‘buried treasure.’ This is an apt description because the Lord’s says, His kingdom is within us. We only have to find it.

You will not find it in the fleeting attractions of the world; you will not find it in material possessions; you will not find it in family. You will only find it within you; in your relationship with God and each other.

Jesus has opened our eyes to recognize this treasure from within. He was shown us how to possess it and how to enjoy it: by changing our attitudes; by embracing the beatitudes so that His word, like new wine in new wineskins, will transform us utterly.

This treasure is worth actively seeking.

Fr. Hugh Duffy