The Prized Pearl
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one
of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it” (Matt13:45-46)

The Pearl has always been a prized, sought after gem. Not only has it attracted fascination but the formation of this gem is even more enthralling!   All other precious stones and gems are mined and found buried deep in the earth, but the Pearl is the only gem that is manufactured and cultivated from a live creature! The Pearl comes from the Oyster or mussel from the Mollusk, (Shell fish) family. When a parasite, tiny particle, or irritant makes its way into the clam, it immediately begins to rid itself of the invader.

It secretes a substance called nacre and purposefully covers the irritant, layer after layer with this substance. This tireless, diligent process takes years but finally produces a Pearl!  A Pearl of great value!

When Jesus described the Kingdom of Heaven to his disciples in (Matt 13:45), He chose the analogy of the Pearl Merchant in search of the prized pearl!  “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it”

Friends Jesus Himself is both the Pearl Merchant and the Pearl of Great Price in this metaphor!  He is the one who sought us, gave Himself up for us and bought us.  He is the living sacrifice who took all our sin and infirmities (irritants) paid for them with His precious blood (nacre) and not only redeemed us, but He gave us the priceless gift of Salvation!

Maybe you’re struggling with sin and feel worthless, bound, addicted, trapped and condemned.  Friends remember Jesus left His throne in Glory, became of no reputation for us, so that we may have life, abundantly and everlasting.  You and I are the valued Pearls that He bought; we are priceless in His sight.  Only Jesus can liberate and set the captive free.  We too with His help can remove the (irritants and parasites) from our lives and be changed, set free and born again!

When we experience this true freedom, when the chains of sin can no longer enslave us and hold us captive, we become content, grateful and satisfied in and with Jesus.  We learn the value of relationship with Jesus so mush so that we are able to trade our old lives for the new.

When you next adorn yourself with or gaze on the beauty of a Pearl, think of the Sacrifice and think of your Worth!

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)”