I never really understood this story.  Why was the man digging in a field that wasnt his own.  Isnt that sort of like stealing anyway?  It was like he was sneaking around the owners back and then secretly bought the field for selfish purposes.  If the kingdom of Heaven is like that treasure, why did he hide it again?  Why not share?

     As for the pearl, he sold everything that he had for that worldly possession.  That just seemed selfish.  I just dont understand.

huh... interesting questions. not sure if i can really answer them. i think because it's a parable, the point is not so much in the details as it is in the overall picture. it's not like Jesus was saying go search in other people's fields, or bet your life on worldly posessions... i think (though of course i may be wrong) that the overall picture is that the kingdom of heaven may take some searching to find, and that it's so important that when one finds it, they're willing to give up everything for it (so it must be pretty amazing). i think he's also implying that it will (and should be?) a huge sacrifice to live for the kingdom of heaven. not sure if that helps at all, but that's my take on the parables.