Catholic Identity
Jake Wilkinson, Leader of Religious Education & Catholic Identity
Gospel Reading
Mathew 13:44–52
The Kingdom of Heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid. In his joy, he went and sold all that he had and bought that field.
Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls. Having found one pearl of great price, he went and sold all that he had and bought it.
Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some fish of every kind. When it was filled, they drew it up on the beach. They sat down and gathered the good into containers, but the bad they threw away. So it will be in the end of the world. The angels will come and separate the wicked from among the righteous and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Jesus said to them, “Have you understood all these things?”
They answered him, “Yes, Lord.”
He said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been made a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who is a householder, who brings out of his treasure new and old things.”
Summary
Jesus tells three short stories about the Kingdom of Heaven. First, it is like a hidden treasure. Then it is like a pearl of great value. In both stories, people gladly give up everything else to gain something far more valuable. Jesus reminds us that knowing God and living as his disciples is worth more than anything we own.
The final story is about a fishing net. It reminds us that God welcomes everyone, but each person is called to choose a life that follows him. Jesus finishes by saying that his disciples should treasure both the wisdom they have received and the new things God continues to teach them. As Catholics, we are called to grow in faith, share the Gospel with others, and keep Christ at the centre of our lives.
Reflection Questions
- What "treasures" in your life help you grow closer to God, and what might be distracting you from him?
- How can you share the gifts and wisdom God has given you with your family, friends, workplace, or parish this week?
Prayer
Loving God,
You are the greatest treasure we will ever find. Help us to seek you above everything else and to recognise your presence in our daily lives. Give us the courage to let go of anything that keeps us from following Jesus with our whole hearts.
Fill us with the wisdom of your Holy Spirit so that we may treasure the teachings of your Church, grow in faith each day, and share your love with those we meet. May our words and actions help build your Kingdom here on earth.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
11:00am | Thursday, 30 July 2026
Sacred Heart Cathedral Bendigo
All are welcome to attend.
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