Encouraged to take the Divine advice

The 2nd Book of Kings, in the Roman Catholic Lectionary today, takes up the story of the prayer of Hezekiah to God concerning the threat from Assyria to capture and lay waste to Jerusalem. The prophet reveals to Hezekiah that Sennecharib would not destroy the city of David. Historically, Hezekiah made concrete preparations for the Assyrian siege that Sennecharib finally laid on Jerusalem in 701 BCE. () Matthew contributes (3) short advice pieces from Jesus to those who are seeking to follow Him. The treasure about which the disciples have learned and experienced is precious. Caution is advised in disseminating the pearls to those who are not in a receptive frame of mind. The practice of doing to others as you would have them do to you (The Golden Rule) is a visible sign of a deeper spiritual relationship. The “many” we are advised seek the easy way. The way that Jesus is leading the disciples through is not the “easy” way. Life’s gifts are often deeply appreciated through great loving and great suffering.