THE DETACHED LIFE

In the Gospel of Matthew chapter 13 there are eight parables to help explain the Kingdom of God. They each begin with “It is like…” and then give a descriptive parable. Three of these are similar in verses 44-52. Jesus is advising us to find a value that will free us from everything we now think is more important than the Kingdom. Also to find a Treasure that is more valuable than treasures we now think are so valuable. And finally to find an attachment that will allow us to detach ourselves from all other things and be firmly attached to the Kingdom of God.

Christianity is essentially not a renunciation but an exercise in preference. The man who sells all his goods to buy the field containing buried treasure and the merchant who sells everything to buy an extraordinary pearl are not renouncing what they presently have but are seeing a higher value and making preference decisions. These men are not crazies, masochists, ascetics, or emotional loonies. They are just people making wise decisions about values. They are people who recognize a better deal than the deal they have when they see it. It is making a better investment than the one they currently have.

I think this is what many people, and especially the business community, are looking to see and hear: about a Kingdom that is better than their current kingdom. A better investment. This is what we are all looking for: the best deal we can get.

“The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” Jesus