Pearl of Great Price
July 28, 2008, 22:37
Yesterday's Mass was celebrated by a Vietnamese priest who had been interred in a concentration camp during the late 80s-early 90s. It was therefore poignant that his sermon was about what was most important in life. Referring to the Gospel text of Matthew 13:44-46, he deplored society's obsession with material pursuits and emphasised that the Christian's goal was to understand and appreciate that the only thing that really mattered was the pursuit of the Kingdom of God since material wealth was temporal. At the end of the day, a person's life would be judged not by how much he possessed materially, but rather, his ability to be kind and loving to those around him. As such, each of us were encouraged to focus on the Kingdom of God and to be prepared to give up everything to attain the Kingdom of God.
My own sense was that having been in a concentration camp, the priest knew what was most valuable in life. In delivering his sermon, he was able to convey his sincere conviction that the Christian's most important possession is being in communion with God. I guess such a conviction is difficult to grasp in a world driven by the pursuit of wealth. We need to remember what is most important to us and never lose sight of our dreams, values and beliefs.
Went to the gym today after work. Workout after a one-week hiatus was extremely refreshing.
This week is expected to be hectic. But I should be able to see it through. Have many things at work to clear before flying off next Friday.
Its scary that I am flying off next Friday. How time flies. I will need to do some packing this weekend and get ready my presentation materials.
Property prices are falling. Parents have been encouraging me to move out. Dad's agent friend is helping to look for possible apartments which I could put my money in. This process would probably gather speed after I get back in September.
Will have to remember to apply to Cambridge Uni and scholarships at KCL for next academic year.
I know there are many life choices that I have to deliberate on. Will have to plan and discern where I should go. I only pray that I will know what really matters and make the right choice.
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
44"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.
45"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. 46When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.
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