Unveiled Glory and the All-Consuming Quest

Exod 34:29-35; Psalm: 98; Mt 13:44-46

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today we will reflect on the unveiled glory and the all-consuming quest that transforms our lives. We live in a world that often feels heavy, burdened by materialism and anxiety. Yet, amidst these challenges lies the promise of a divine encounter that can change us forever.

Let us begin by reflecting on the words from our catechism, which remind us that prayer makes us partakers of the divine nature. What a beautiful invitation this is! When we engage in prayer, when we seek that sacred connection with our Creator, we are invited into a transformation that is nothing short of miraculous. This is the essence of our faith, the essence of our journey. We often find ourselves standing before a veil, a barrier that separates us from the glory of God. But in Christ, that veil has been torn away. In the New Covenant, we are blessed to behold God with unveiled face. Imagine that! The Creator of the universe invites us to experience His presence intimately and personally. This is not just a promise for a select few but for all who earnestly seek Him.

Now, let us ponder what it means to discover the hidden treasures of the Kingdom. In the Gospel, Jesus speaks of a hidden treasure and a priceless pearl, both symbols of the incredible worth of His Kingdom. But what happens when faith feels ordinary? When our daily life feels mundane and our spiritual journey seems stagnant? It is in these moments that we must seek a divine encounter. We must rediscover the treasure that is always within our reach, waiting for us to embrace it.

In a world filled with distractions and worries, we often cling to material possessions, believing they will bring us happiness. Yet, Jesus invites us to detach so we may possess what truly matters. Just as Moses wore a veil to shield others from the radiance of God, we too must unmask our souls before Him. Let us lay bare our hearts and allow His light to shine through us. When we are spiritually exhausted, we can feel like we are running on empty. But there is a promise that our radiant face can be renewed in prayer. It is in these sacred moments of connection that we are recharged, revitalized, and transformed. The pearl merchant reminds us that true joy comes from sacrifice, from letting go of the trivial to grasp the eternal.

So, how do we become radiant witnesses of this unveiled glory? First, we must cultivate our Sinai time, carving out moments to encounter God in prayer and reflection. Second, we engage in holy divestment by simplifying our lives materially and spiritually. We let go of what weighs us down, creating space for what truly matters. Lastly, we become Kingdom merchants. For those who are weary, we reflect God’s radiance through joyful service. Our acts of kindness, compassion, and love become beacons of hope in a world yearning for light.

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, let us embark on this all-consuming quest together. Let us seek the unveiled glory of our God, allowing His transformative power to change us from within. As we do, we will shine brightly in our communities, reflecting the beauty and love of Christ to all we encounter. Amen.

St. John Chrysostom on Exodus 34:

“Moses’ face shone not from Sinai’s rocks, but from God’s heart. So too, prayer etches divine light onto our souls.”

St. Thérèse of Lisieux on Matthew 13:

“To buy the Pearl, I give all—even my littleness. Jesus transforms my poverty into radiant wealth.”

Pope Benedict XVI:

“The parables reveal: God is the Treasure we seek, and we are the treasure He sells all to redeem” (Jesus of Nazareth, Vol. 1).