Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
Philippians 2:1–11, Psalm (Isaiah 12:2–6), Matthew 13:44–46
Jesus used different parables to speak to the people about the kingdom. Today’s gospel presents us with two such parables: the Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Parable of the Pearl.
The one who discovers the hidden treasure realizes that heaven is our greatest treasure; he renounces the world in order to attain it. This parable teaches the importance of recognizing the immense value of spiritual treasures and being willing to prioritize them over worldly pursuits.
The merchant, who discovers the priceless pearl, sells all he has to acquire it. This also teaches the concept of prioritizing spiritual growth and salvation. These parables remind us that there is nothing in this world comparable to the Kingdom. Heaven is our greatest treasure; whoever discovers it must change his ways to attain it.
Cyprain Michael Iwene Tansi discovered the greatest treasure, and so he lived a life of humility and mortification in order to attain it. Apostle Paul says in the first reading, “Let this mind be in you, which was in Christ Jesus.” To be in heaven, we must have the mindset of Christ.
Let us pray
O God, who granted many graces to your servant, priest, and monk, Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi, choosing him as a faithful instrument for evangelization and sanctification of your people, grant that we may also spend our lives loving you and our neighbor. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
