‘Eureka’ was the cry that went up in the diggings when prospectors found gold. Humans have been in pursuit of the ‘pot of gold’ at the end of the rainbow down throughout the ages. Each civilisation has sought after what it deemed precious, seeking to amass their fortune. Today it might be bitcoin or shares that drive our desire for wealth and power.

Jesus, knowing our propensity to seek after ‘treasure’ or ‘fine pearls’ teaches us that we can use this human drive to go after the things of God. If the kingdom of heaven is our priority, then we can focus our energies and efforts in accumulating the Kingdom values espoused by Jesus, namely the Beatitudes. Being poor in spirit, showing compassion for those mourning, meekness, hungering for justice, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers and enduring persecution for righteousness are the real treasure that brings happiness to the human heart.

What does the ‘search for gold’ look like in our lives? Yes, we need to work to provide for our families but if, accumulating wealth, status and power becomes our goal, then enough is never enough and our success is dependent on depriving others of their rightful resources. When our focus is on peace, forgiveness, caring for others, recognising goodness in others, encouraging youth to pursue their dreams and sharing the earth’s resources for all, then the ‘gold’ we seek will be a blessing to ourselves and others.

In this Jubilee year, may we be pilgrims of hope, choosing to pursue the treasure that brings life to ourselves and others.

By Mike Humphrys