Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time — July 26, 2026

Every Sunday, Bishop Edward Malesic writes a Scripture reflection for the faithful. Follow the bishop on Facebook and Instagram.

Click here for the readings.

Before banks existed, people would sometimes hide their valuables in the ground. Only they knew where the treasure was buried. But every now and then, a stranger digging in the field would strike something unexpected—and discover a hidden gift.  

The same is true of a pearl. It forms quietly inside an oyster, hidden from sight, growing over time—until one day it is brought to the surface and revealed as something precious. 

We all spend our lives searching for treasure. 
Maybe it’s money. A better job. Good health. Peace of mind. 

But Jesus tells us today that the greatest treasure is something else entirely: the Kingdom of Heaven. 

This Kingdom is often hidden. It begins within us at Baptism—small at first, like a pearl forming deep within the sea. And it grows throughout our lives, until it is fully revealed in Heaven. 

Even now, the treasure is already among us. 

It is hidden in the Word of God we hear in Scripture. 
It is veiled in the Sacraments we celebrate. 
It is present in the Eucharist—so close to us, even in the tabernacle—yet so often overlooked. 

And it is also hidden in one another. 

When we encounter those in need, we are meeting Christ Himself, often in disguise. When we look into the face of the poor, it is Christ who is looking back at us. 

And if we are disciples of Jesus, then this treasure is hidden within us as well. 

That raises an important question: When others come to us searching for something more… do they find it? Do they encounter Jesus in us? 

In the parable, the man finds the treasure in the field—but then he hides it again, just long enough to go and sell everything he has to buy that field. He is willing to give up everything for what truly matters. 

We are called to do the same. 
Hold fast to the treasure we have found. 
Value it above everything else 

But we are not meant to keep it to ourselves. 

Once we have received the gift of faith—once we belong to the Kingdom—we are called to share that treasure with others. 

Because there is a pearl of great price waiting for every person to discover… if only they go looking for it. 

Have a blessed week, everyone.