The treasure hunter who solved Forrest Fenn’s famed treasure hunt in the Rocky Mountains has come forward — though if he’d had his way, he would’ve stayed anonymous.

Jack Stuef, a 32-year-old medical student from Michigan, revealed that he found Fenn’s treasure chest — a claim Fenn’s family independently verified with Outside magazine, which interviewed Stuef. He disclosed his identity because a recent lawsuit would make his name public, he said. He’s not willing, though, to part with the treasure’s secrets and the clues that led him to it.

Fenn’s infamous treasure hunt began 10 years ago, when the author published a cryptic poem in his autobiography meant to lead prospective explorers to the spot in the Wyoming wilderness where his treasure chest was hidden. Fenn estimated over 350,000 people searched for the chest, and a few even died on their journey.

Stuef spent two years searching for Fenn’s treasure, which included gold, jewelry and other artifacts believed to total over $1 million. He finally found it in the Wyoming wilderness in June. But as “luck would have it,” he was legally bound to reveal his identity.

Jesus once spoke of a treasure hunter who acted the same way. In Matthew 13:44 Jesus says, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field” (NIV). I suppose you could argue that he was shrewd, or perhaps even wise. A man who gains a quick fortune often discovers the true intentions of well-meaning “friends.” Soon everyone wants a piece of the pie, so to speak.

However, Jesus reveals a bigger and far more noble pursuit-sharing the wealth! The Lord’s greater message is not one of wealth, but of the Kingdom. The message is not to discover something of such great value (the Kingdom) that you want to keep it hid at all cost. The Kingdom is a treasure, it is a man search for fine pearls, and it is a banquet to which everyone is invited, even the unlovable.

So what if Jack Stuef wants to keep his secret? He is entitled to one might argue, but the law says otherwise. The treasure (Kingdom) Jesus speaks of is the substance of His grace and the richness of His provision. Ever been accused of keeping a secret that can change the world? Well you have now.