“Every teacher of the law who has been made a disciple of the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.” (Matt.13:52)
This verse in Matthew blends both “treasure” and “discipleship” in a fascinating way. Part of it’s allure is the element which causes us to wonder — “What in the world is Jesus talking about?” There are, in fact, many parables littered throughout the Gospels that have this same effect. It begs the question, why does Jesus use such confusing rhetoric? The answer may lie in the parables themselves. One of the simple observations in many of them, is that the kingdom of heaven is small, like a seed. If given ample opportunity, that seed will grow.
I wonder if Jesus wants us to… wonder. What if our confusion is supposed to pique our curiosity? What if a small taste of the kingdom was a catalyst to us wanting to feast? What if, instead of us being spoon fed and pampered, Jesus expects us to struggle and to seek the kingdom — like the merchant searching for fine jewels? This is where discipleship (following and becoming more like Jesus) comes into play. We as individuals and communities need to grow. We need to learn. We need to seek. We need to mature in our faith and be TRAINED in the kingdom of heaven. (The twelve disciples exemplify this). When our pursuit is realized, we will find treasure — treasure in the kingdom, but also in the journey itself.
So, to use my son’s favorite phrase… Let’s do this! You and I have much treasure to receive and much to give.
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