#soap # Matthew 13 ## Title: When We Discover the Kingdom ## Scripture: (Matthew 13:44-46) “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure, hidden in a field, that a person found and hid. Then because of joy he went and sold all that he had and bought that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he found a pearl of great value, he went out and sold everything he had and bought it. (NET) ## Observation: I love this analogy. Jesus is using a parable, or story, to explain a complex spiritual principle. In this story, He speaks of someone on the lookout for what he needs. As a merchant, he would be looking for things of value to be sold. He finds the greatest prize he could hope to discover. This prize is not for sale. He becomes the buyer. He changes his entire goal in life and is now satisfied with what he has discovered. Jesus is saying the Kingdom of Heaven is like that. People spend their whole lives looking for something. Some people are looking for love, some are looking for meaning, and some are looking for security for the future. Jesus says that when we discover the Kingdom of Heaven and His goodness, we become the chaser. We dive in and never look back. ## Application: When is the last time you thought of being a Christian as a lifelong adventure with God? You have discovered the greatest miracle. Celebrate that today. ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, that it was really You who found us.