Mothers’ Union Devotion Wednesday 28th July 2021

‘The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it. Matthew 13. 44-46

 

Over the time of lockdown and travel restrictions we have had time and space to truly contemplate what exactly our treasure is. Whether it is our homes, our family, our friends, our pets, our faith or the basic necessities of life such as shelter, security, food, clothing. Sometimes we find that our treasure is hidden in the busyness of life, and we don’t always remember just how precious those things are to us. During our times of isolation those treasures appeared not only to be hidden from view but rather buried completely away from us.

 

As we have exited our isolation and been able to engage with more and more people and places, we have begun to dig up our buried treasure. And what a joy that has been and is continuing to be. Recently it has been lovely to see pictures of Mothers’ Union members and branches having fun as they joyfully meet again. Rediscovering the treasure that we have in the friendship and companionship that we share.

 

One of the other hidden treasures that we have discovered of the past 18 months is that, as human beings, deep down we all value the same things. The joy of spending time with our loved ones. The security of having our basis needs met. The freedom of being able to worship or find renewal and refreshment in our spiritual lives. We have all shared in the same emotionally difficult and trying situation.

 

There have been moments when we find ourselves comparing the behaviour of others during lockdown, that it has been hard to believe that we have all faced the same struggles. We have seen people, neighbours and public figures, disobeying the rules. We know that some people have loved ones close at hand and there are others who are still not able to meet their loved ones because of international travel restrictions.

 

It is at times like these, when we find ourselves beginning to judge the behaviour of others, that we need to turn to our greatest treasure of all. It is through listening to the Word of God, our loving Lord Jesus Christ, that we begin to truly discover our shared humanity. A shared treasure of joy, gratitude and love of all that the kingdom on earth and in heaven can and will bring to us all.

 

With all my love and prayers

 

Revd Sandra