“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.”

Personal meaning, with me as the man

A field – presents a picture of everyday work and life, of what is familiar, monotonous, and arduous. It is not remote or exotic, it is right where we are placed;

Hidden – In that everyday setting I find what I have never seen previously, it is shown to me at just the time I am there, as if it is specially meant for me;

Found and hid – the meaning of this is not to deny others, but that my response is to prize that treasure and make sure I do not lose any of it;

For joy over it – my response is not a legalistic one of what commands or obligations it entails, but such an overwhelming joy that I focus on this to the exclusion of everything else, as nothing can compare to this;

Sells all that he has – I gladly put aside everything I have previously worked for in this earthly life in exchange for this, its value is beyond anything I have, so there is absolutely no hesitation, no looking back;

And buys that field – I secure the treasure as my own possession, to own it as mine.

Personal Impact

That other people don’t see the treasure should not distract me or make me question if it is just a dream, but neither should it make me proud or conceited.
It has nothing to do with others, it is entirely my simple, personal, and overwhelming response to an infinitely great treasure.
But, afterward I discover it is so infinitely great that sharing it with others only adds to its value.

If I regard the responsibilities of this treasure as a legal burden or a list of commands, or focus on what I have (so called) “lost” in order to secure it, then I have lost sight, or not even seen, the treasure. For its worth brings overwhelming joy and delight.
With my eyes on the prize, the alternative or any sense of needing to forego something, doesn’t enter my thoughts.

How do I secure ownership? Through belief or faith, which is also a gift.
The Holy Spirit assures me of that (Eph 1:13-14), “having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, who is the guarantee of our inheritance”
Satan cannot snatch this prize from those who believe, so his attacks are on our faith, he tries to raise doubt. So, I simply rely on Jesus’ promises.

May we all learn to simply rely on Jesus’ promises.