Meditations on the Life of Our Lord
by J. Nouet, S.J.
Sixteenth Week After Pentecost - Thursday
1st Point. "The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in a field." (Matt. xiii.44) Jesus Christ is the treasure in which your heart should centre, his knowledge and love constitute your spiritual riches. Holy Scripture is the field wherein is found this rich treasure, that is to say, Jesus Christ. But there is a treasure hidden, "man knoweth not the price thereof. Neither is it found in the land of them that live in delights." (Job xxviii. 13) It is found in the cross, in the Blessed Sacrament, and in heaven.
2nd Point. "The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in the field, which a man having found, hid, and for joy thereof, goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field." (Matt. xiii. 44) What should you not give to own the treasure hidden in the cross, in the Blessed Sacrament, in heaven, and in the hearts of Jesus and Mary. No one has a right to possess this treasure except by purchase. Heavenly riches can be acquired only by renouncing whatever the world holds valuable. Did you understand this, you would sacrifice all, not only without difficulty, but with joy. Love Jesus Christ and you shall experience a joy more pure and solid than the wicked possess in all the false delights of this world.
3rd Point. Once you have discovered and purchased this treasure, wisdom and humility require that you hide it anew. If you are wise, guard it with extreme care. If you are obliged to tell your neighbour the lights and graces of heaven with which you have been enriched, you should purify your intention, satisfied the God beholds, and prepares for you a great recompense. "Deal with thy servant according to thy mercy, and teach me thy justifications."
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