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By David Edmonston
Guest Columnist

Sacrifice. Does that word have positive or negative connotations for you? It’s a matter of perspective; whether you focus on what you are giving up versus what you stand to gain. We all make sacrifices in our lives. We may sacrifice sleep in order to exercise, read, watch TV, or pray. Parents make sacrifices daily for the benefit of their children. The size of the sacrifice sometimes depends on the worth or value of what we think is to be gained.

Matthew records two short parables that Jesus gave in which He was showing that the kingdom of heaven is of incalculable worth, and is therefore worthy of great sacrifice to obtain. Jesus said, “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid again; and from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, and upon finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it. (Matt. 13:44-46) 

Obviously, a treasure is something of value. And in the second parable, Jesus describes the kingdom as a pearl of great value. But the terms “treasure” and “great value” are subjective. Jesus gives further explanation to show just how valuable the kingdom is. In both cases, how much did the man and the merchant sell (sacrifice) in order to obtain what they wanted? They didn’t sell some of what they had. They didn’t sell most. They sold all!! Jesus’s point here is that the kingdom is so valuable, it is worthy of complete sacrifice and devotion. In reality, eternal life with God is of incalculable worth!

Why is that? It’s not because of the place. It’s because of being in the presence of God Himself and what that brings. It brings the holy rule of God and living under conditions where love and righteousness reign. There is unblemished communion with God. And, in the words of Revelation 21:4-5, “… He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.” And He who sits on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.”

What are you willing to sacrifice to obtain the kingdom of heaven? In other words, what are you willing to do or give up in your life that hinders you from being fully devoted to God or from faithfully serving Him? Jesus was not teaching that the kingdom can be bought. It cannot be earned with good behavior or following rules. It is only received by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). Jesus paid our debt for sin on the cross. Don’t abuse God’s grace or “rest on your laurels”. Be willing to sacrifice all for Him! That’s what He did for you!

DAVID EDMONSTON is the pastor of Trinity Church in Prospect. He can be reached at davidetrinitychurch@gmail.com.