The Hunt for Treasure

“Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you his kingdom.”

The first image that comes to mind when I think of the word “treasure” is that of swashbuckling pirates unearthing a chest full of gold coins. While this image is not so much a modern interpretation of treasure, the manifestation of a buried chest provides the same connotation. Treasure is something that we hold dear to us, and we worry about its being taken away.

This hunt for treasure and the security it brings is what Jesus describes in his teaching to the disciples, and to us, in our passage today.

Jesus begins this passage by addressing his disciples and telling them not to worry. He frames this worry as being directed towards what they are to eat and drink. We worry about what we treasure. Jesus is pointing out that his disciples have treasured earthly possessions and status above that which holds eternal significance. When we hold onto earthly treasures too tightly, we begin to question whether God can truly provide for us, even despite our witnessing of God’s care for the ravens and lilies in our midst.

This must have been a contextual issue, right? Is Jesus also speaking to us?

Yes, he is. Jesus calls us, gently and intimately, as the Good Shepherd. He invites us out of worry and into a hunt for a new treasure, found through participation in his kingdom. He gives us this treasure freely and with delight, allowing us, his people, to set our hearts on things that are eternal.

The kingdom Jesus proclaims is characterized by a God who provides all that we need. Jesus also gives us an invitation, and a command, to extend radical provision. In the kingdom, worry about self has been replaced by a desire to provide for others in the same way God has provided for us. May we lean into this kingdom work during this Lenten season, reminded of the true treasure that is Christ.

Lord, may we consider the ravens and the lilies in our own lives as evidence of your provision and sustenance. Open our eyes to the treasure of your kingdom that is found through love of you and neighbor. Amen.

HAYLEIGH SHADLE
Master of Divinity Student
Puyallup, Washington