Jesus said, "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he had found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it." Matthew 13:45-46. Jesus' followers would take this message of Jesus' kingdom of heaven all over their known world. They would exchange their lives as fishermen, tax collector, physician, employers, employees, self-employed, etc., knowing they would be beaten, marred, and martyred merely for giving the kingdom of heaven to others. They would experience ridicule, persecution, floggings, imprisonment, and death. What is so special, unique, attractive, intriguing and compelling about the kingdom of heaven that is worth selling all that you have in order to invest in it, in order to possess it? For Jesus' followers, finding this kingdom has been even more valuable than life itself. Exploring the kingdom of heaven and its value is a life experience that reaches to the depth of the meaning of human life. Exploring the kingdom of heaven may reveal its value, its treasure, to you. Rochelle Ray holds an MDiv from Asbury Theological Seminary and a BS in Mechanical Engineering with experience as both an engineer and as clergy.
