12/09/2024

Read: Matthew 13:44 - “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”

Reflect: What is the most joy you have ever experienced? Imagine something filling you with so much joy, you give up everything you have just to get it. Jesus says this is what the kingdom of heaven is like. Something so precious, so wonderful, and so desirable that we should be willing to give up anything just to get it. The man was literally “overjoyed”. His joy compelled him to sell his possessions and buy that field. Our joy for the good news of Jesus should compel us to give up our old idols, our old ways, our old desires, and replace them with the new way of God’s kingdom. And the reverse is also true. If the man did not sell ALL that he has, he may not have had enough to buy that field. If we are not willing to give up ALL the old things, we may not have the capacity to receive the new things the Lord wants to give us. But if we truly understand just how much good God has in store for us when we follow Him, the resulting joy would forbid us from not giving up everything.

Respond: Are there any old ways of the flesh you’re holding on to that might be hindering your walk in the new way of the Kingdom of Heaven? Pray that the Lord would fill you with such joy in this Advent season that you would be compelled to give it all up for the sake of Jesus! And remember to give Him thanks that this treasure is even able to be found by us at all.