Matthew 13:44-46
“The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid again. In his joy, he goes away and sells all that he has and buys that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls. When he found one very valuable pearl, he went and sold all that he had and bought it.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Forgive us when we do not see the value of our salvation. We become so engrossed in our life’s moments that we fail to see heaven’s treasures, and we should desire to do everything we can for that precious gem. We all begin equally condemned because of our sin, just as Jesus said to Nicodemus (John 3:17, 18), “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. The one who believes in him is not condemned, but the one who does not believe is condemned already because he has not believed in the name of the only-begotten Son of God.” Before faith, condemnation is everyone’s beginning. Our consciences tell us when we do something wrong and way on us in guilt and shame.
But the kingdom of heaven comes to us through faith in your Son, our Savior Jesus. We cannot buy our way into heaven; instead, it is a free gift that is ours knowing and trusting Jesus suffered and died for us. This gift comes to us in faith—which the Holy Spirit began in us and sustained through your Word and sacraments. Your gift of heaven is so much more valuable than some gem in a field or a pearl; your forgiveness opens the gate of heaven for us; it is there that we have eternal life and salvation with no suffering, pain, or tears ever again.
Let us see, then, share that great treasure awaiting everyone, which only comes through faith in Christ. Put your words in our mouths, so we can confidently share with others, telling those who do not know you about the gem of forgiveness and the pearl of wisdom that opens the gate to heaven for them. Amen.
Written through Pastor Roger Emmons
Your faith is something you can share; giving all that you can to others and it will never run out.