Talking to God face to face can be a scary business. The Israelites refused to go up the mountain, sending Moses instead. The encounter changed him forever, and the radiance that shone from his face forced him to keep it covered. Our own experiences of God are much quieter and simpler affairs, and should not be at all frightening. But they should change us! The face of a person who has fallen in love shines with a radiance that tells everyone that something wonderful has happened. Likewise, our face can tell others a lot about our relationship with God. A sour disposition, anger, a long face, and sadness are indications of something else. Let our face preach the gospel.

Great things are hidden right under our noses. Often we look far and wide for our 'treasure'. The parables tell us that what we are looking for is disguised and unrecognized but very precious. In both short parables, the one finding the treasure or pearl must first gain the right to it through purchase, and then it is theirs for the taking. We must decide what is most important in our life and then take steps to attain it. This 'purchase' means leaving behind other things: old ideas, values, attachments, and habits.