“Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it!”
Matthew 13:45-46
Pearl: Created by the immune system of an oyster, it is initiated by a parasite or other disturbance that enters the shell of the oyster while it is eating or breathing.
- seen as an object of beauty throughout the centuries
- metaphorically: very rare, fine, admirable, valuable
Let me tell you how rare a pearl is, “in a haul of three tons only three or four oysters will produce perfect pearls.”
Jesus was the ultimate example of someone who worked for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven, like a merchant looking for choice pearls, he gave everything for the sake of others, you and me, to come into the kingdom. He sees us a admirable and valuable, like a fine pearl. Very few people will come to realize the beauty and value that their lives can have if they make a decision to come to Jesus.
I am challenged not only to allow Jesus to make me into that pearl, but also to allow Jesus to use me to seek out others. To share with them the truth of the word of God, no matter what the cost. Even in my weakness and inability, to believe God for the miraculous.
Are you wondering, does God want to use me? The answer is yes.
There is no doubt in my mind that if you are willing to be used by God for his kingdom he is willing to use you. If you feel incapable, ill-equipped or just plain unable, that is okay too. God is willing to equip you, seek him through prayer and read his word. It seems like a Sunday School answer, but there is a reason they teach that in Sunday School.
“Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world’s eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful.” (1 Cor. 1:26-27)
I am challenged to step out in obedience to be used for the sake of Heaven’s Kingdom, and as I venture into this season I encourage you to also ask God, “How can you use my life for your glory today?” As we make that choice together we will see God leading us to many more pearls that he will add to his kingdom.
<3 Emily
