The Gospel lectionary passage for this week is Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52.  These passages are a series of parables having to do with what the Kingdom of Heaven is like.

The parables are all very familiar.  Each of these parables could be the focus of a sermon.  The verse I feel draw toward, however, is verse 52: “Every scribe (NIV=teacher; CSB=student) who has been trained for the Kingdom of Heaven is like the master of a household who brings out his treasure…”

The verb for trained is the word often translated made a disciple.  Studying about the Kingdom is described as a treasure, and old treasure and a new treasure.

Our understanding of the Kingdom of Heaven (our being made disciples of the Kingdom) is a treasure.

As a martial arts instructor (my hobby) I understand the meaning of training.  Three days a week I spend time with students who want to learn the martial art I teach (or at least think they do).  When they grasp the meaning and purpose of a kata (pre-planned movement) they get excited because they realize they have acquired an ability.  The hours of practice have produced a treasure.

The more I study these wonderful parables to prepare a sermon or lesson, the more I understand the powerful illustration Jesus uses.  I will talk about this tomorrow with my study group.