The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.  Matthew 13:44

Last weekend, I experienced the joy of finding treasure.  In spite of a too-busy schedule, I agreed to be a leader at Young Life camp.  Not only did I spend my time, I also had to give up my comfort.  I’m not talking about the chilly red mud or the hard cabin bunks, but my discomfort at being in a role I don’t do well.  For a while, I didn’t think I belonged there at all and felt discouraged.  But then, God graciously allowed me to see Him at work, in spite of my failure and withdrawal.  As I had the privilege to witness his Holy Spirit move and to play a part in a conversation of surrender to Him, I was overwhelmed by the sense of knowing treasure.  I am grateful to share in the footsteps of the man who went and sold all he had because he knew the surpassing greatness of what he would receive.

And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.  Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?  Luke 14:27-28