2 Kings 11:1-4,9-18,20 ·
Psalm 131(132):11-14,17-18
Matthew 6:19-23
God is the treasure we are seeking.
In today’s gospel, Jesus encourages us to ‘store up treasure for ourselves in heaven.’ When contemplating the idea of treasure, one might think of a treasure map, which serves as a reminder that every story in the Bible presents a meaningful journey. Each narrative is marked by trials, temptations, and important choices. Along this journey toward the divine treasure, there are often challenges, snares, and distractions that can divert us from our true purpose.
This morning’s first reading highlights the story of Queen Mother Athaliah. After the murder of her son, King Ahaziah, she attempted to secure her position by eliminating all other royal heirs. In contrast, Jehosheba, sister of King Ahaziah, chose to protect her nephew Joash by secretly hiding him in the temple for six years. During this time, her husband, High Priest Jehoiada, nurtured and educated the young prince, eventually leading a successful effort to crown Joash as king and to overthrow the ambitious Athaliah, who had turned to the worship of Baal.
Jehosheba’s faithfulness to God’s covenant played a vital role in preserving God’s plan, ensuring that Joash could ultimately fulfill his divine purpose.
Once Joash was recognized as king, Jehoiada reaffirmed the people’s commitment to God through a renewed covenant. This covenant, involving the LORD, the king, and the people, emphasized their collective dedication to being the LORD’s faithful community. As a result, the people’s commitment was not merely verbal but demonstrated in their actions—they tore down Baal’s temple and destroyed its idols, signifying genuine devotion to God.
Their example reminds us of the importance of steadfastness. We are called to equip ourselves with God’s Word, seek truth, and keep our gaze fixed on Him.
God remains the true treasure we seek. As we follow Him, we aim to navigate through the many traps and distractions that can steer us away from our ultimate goal—eternal life in Heaven.
May each day present us with the choice to remain faithful, to renew our covenant with God, and to walk the path that leads to the greatest treasure of all.
Fr Joseph Osho
