‘The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it. ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ‘Have you understood all this?’ They answered, ‘Yes.’ And he said to them, ‘Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.’ Matthew 13:44-52

This afternoon autumn begins in our hemisphere; the end of summer is official, and we reflect of the season past and prepare for the days ahead. I feel that there is a glimpse of the divine when first we encounter the cool, crisps days of autumn. They don't last long enough in New England. It's also a time to take stock and begin again in new ways. I am always overwhelmed by the dee felt urge to get school supplies and organize my office and desk, despite the fact that I am retired and not in school at all. Jesus tells stories to his followers, so that the images might stay in their minds, so that they might remember when life transitions happen and seasons of life change. He helps us refocus on the important thing and not get scattered by foolish distractions and urges. Our treasure is God's love for us and we are called to put love first in all seasons.

Gracious Creator, our renewal in every season

you made the day and night, sun and moon

all turning in the order of the universe's heart

love which draws us forward in every new age.

We face transitions with dread and reluctance

we think the familiar and former ways are best

we refuse to reach forward with hope and joy

and bury ourselves in shallow reminiscing.

Lord, help us to find our treasure in you again

may love flourish in new and challenging times

may we be agents of hope and positive change

so the world might know the inbreaking of your love. Amen.