Charles Jackson
Aug 26, 2008
"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field." (Matt 13:44)
How do we feel about being a Christian? Is it unpleasant, a drag? Do we practice the lifestyle only because of fear of punishment? Jesus carried none of these views. With him, the life was like finding a treasure.
The question that hangs in our mind is is there really a treasure? If there is, why have not more people found it? What's the meaning and value of it all?
The reading above indicates the treasure is worth all we have. Now, we are more aware of the cost than the treasure. Risk deters growth and expansion. In the end, we substitute security for adventure. No treasure.
Write on paper the things you are willing to die for. Now, you have found your treasure, and, the price is right. When convinced of the treasure, we are never afraid of the cost.
The secret word is desire. There is great power in desire. Desire implies concentration, hard work. Life without these two essentials can be like writing. One begins to compose but is distracted by cleaning the desk. Then, books are returned to shelves. Something to drink is needed. Now, it's time to clean the desk again. All is disorder.
Jesus wins men by opening eyes to possibilities. The story is told of a welfare worker who wanted a sloven family to clean up their living space. She had words of admonition every week. No success. On one visit she put flowers in the living room. On her return, she found the rooms cleaned and yard mowed. Jesus shows us a treasure - in our desire we find meaning. Jacob worked seven years for his wife but "it seemed as a few days." (Gen. 29:20)
Charles is a retired but busy missionary and preacher of the Gospel. Charles and Mary live in various places (depending on the time of year) but are surrounded in love and respect by family and friends from all over the world. Charles is a mentor to and supporter of those associated with mission work at NSCofC. Charles likes to tell stories just like Jesus liked to tell stories. We reprint with permission.
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