We must ask why the kingdom of heaven is the most valuable thing in the world and worth forsaking all else in order to obtain it.In other words, why did the Wise Men travel so far to see the baby Jesus, and offer precious gifts to Him? Why did the disciples leave all and follow Him? Why did Jesus command us to seek first the kingdom of God? Jesus Himself tells us. In the Beatitudes, He pronounces those happy who receive the kingdom, and then describes that blessedness further: They “shall be comforted; inherit the earth ;be filled (satisfied);obtain mercy [from God]; see God; be called sons of God; receive a great reward in heaven (5:2-12). When we sin against God and come to Him asking forgiveness, He will pardon our offenses (6:12; 9:2). If we put His kingdom first, then our heavenly Father will also provide for us all the material things we need (6:33) When the inevitable storms of life batter us, we shall possess a firm foundation (7:24-25). Those who enter the kingdom avoid being cast into hell, where unbelievers in “outer darkness” suffer “the furnace of fire” and “wailing and gnashing of teeth” (8:12; 13:42). One of the most precious promises awaits those who come to Jesus, believing that He is God’s chosen King: “I will give you rest” (11:28). Perhaps best of all, we shall become members of the everlasting family of God: “Whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother” (12:50). All this – and much more – awaits those who “seek first the kingdom of God” by “leaving all” to follow Jesus.