God loves you, so in turn loving God’s commands makes you whole. Give everything of yourself. God graces you more than you know, more than your life’s experience. You are connected.

So you might have joy unending—or a certain limited pleasure later this afternoon. The only thing that would compel you to eagerly accept a nickel now rather than a dollar later is that you don't put your trust in later. You believe only in the now.

God’s kingdom is like a treasure hidden in a field for years and then accidentally found by a trespasser. The finder is ecstatic—what a find!—and proceeds to sell everything he owns to raise money and buy that field.

AS THE LONG DAYS OF SUMMER stretch out before us, do yourself a favor and spend time on a beach—a quiet beach, a beach made for long walks and deep thoughts. If you give yourself the rare treat of sun, sand, and solitude, you will eventually uncover treasures buried deep within you. 

Brothers and sisters, let us acknowledge our sins, and so prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries.

God’s words “give you a heart so wise and understanding,” and it is understanding Solomon preferred above all else, like the finders of treasure and the pearl of great price in the gospel.

Jesus used “likes”—the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field; it is like something we would give a lot to have. Think about the things you are willing to make sacrifices for. Is the kingdom of God like one of them?

In the kingdom of love there is no competition; there is no possessiveness or control. The more love you give away, the more love you will have. —John O’Donohue