1. Lectio
Read the passage slowly and attentively, paying close attention to each word and detail.
Passage: “Jesus said in parables: The kingdom of heaven is like unto a treasure hidden in a field. Which a man having found, hid it, and for joy thereof goeth, and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.
Again the kingdom of heaven is like to a merchant seeking good pearls. Who when he had found one pearl of great price, went his way, and sold all that he had, and bought it. Again the kingdom of heaven is like to a net cast into the sea, and gathering together of all kinds of fishes. Which, when it was filled, they drew out, and sitting by the shore, they chose out the good into vessels, but the bad they cast forth. So shall it be at the end of the world. The angels shall go out, and shall separate the wicked from among the just. And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Have ye understood all these things? They say to him: Yes. He said unto them: Therefore every scribe instructed in the kingdom of heaven, is like to a man that is a householder, who bringeth forth out of his treasure new things and old.” (Saint Matthew 13:44-52)
2. Meditatio
Reflect on the passage, considering what it says about Christ and how it speaks to your own spiritual life.
- Treasure hidden in a field: Reflect on the value and joy of discovering the kingdom of heaven. Consider what it means to find something so precious that you are willing to give up everything to possess it.
- The pearl of great price: Reflect on the merchant’s determination to seek out and acquire the pearl. Consider the pursuit of the kingdom of heaven as the ultimate goal of your life, worthy of any sacrifice.
- The net gathering all kinds of fishes: Reflect on the souls in the kingdom of heaven and the final judgment where the good are separated from the evil. Consider the importance of living a righteous life in preparation for the end times.
- The separation at the end of the world: Reflect on the reality of the final judgment and the fate of the wicked and the just. Consider the seriousness of living a life in accordance with God’s will to be counted among the just.
- The householder’s treasures: Reflect on the wisdom of bringing forth both new and old treasures, signifying the value of both new insights and established truths. Consider how you can keep hold of traditional teachings and have a better understanding of God’s word in your spiritual walk.
3. Oratio
Respond to the passage with prayer, seeking to connect with God through the text.
My Lord Jesus Christ, as I reflect on Thy parables, I am struck by the incomparable value of the kingdom of heaven. Help me to seek it with all my heart, willing to sacrifice everything to possess it. Grant me the wisdom to discern and live a life that reflects Thy righteousness, preparing for the final judgment. Teach me to value both the old and new treasures of faith, integrating them into my life. May I always strive to live in accordance with the will of Thy Father in heaven, being counted among the just in the end. Amen.
4. Contemplatio
Spend some time in silent contemplation, resting in God’s presence and allowing the truths of the passage to sink deeply into your heart.
Imagine yourself as the person who finds the hidden treasure or the merchant seeking the pearl of great price. Feel the joy and determination that comes with discovering something of infinite value. Contemplate the call to prioritise the kingdom of heaven above all else. Rest in the assurance that living according to God’s will leads to eternal reward.
5. Actio
Consider how you can apply the insights gained from this passage to your daily life.
- Prioritise the kingdom of heaven: Evaluate your life to ensure that seeking God’s kingdom is your highest priority, willing to make sacrifices for it.
- Seek righteousness: Strive to live a life that reflects God’s righteousness, preparing for the final judgment.
- Integrate wisdom: Balance new insights with traditional teachings in your spiritual practices, valuing both.
- Share your faith: Be like the householder, sharing the treasures of faith with others, both old and new.
- Prepare for the end: Live each day in readiness for the final judgment, aiming to be counted among the just.
