Matthew 13:45,46 “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.”
Mrs. Shirley Martin went to the local Salvation Army thrift store in Vancouver and bought a box of buttons for one dollar. Her husband, a postman, was fast asleep one evening as she rummaged through the box. Amongst the many buttons, something sparkled. It looked like a diamond. She rushed through to the bedroom and woke her husband. “Darling, I think I’ve found a diamond!” “Oh, come on, dear, you’re always having these crazy ideas,” he replied, and nodded off again. Mrs. Martin took the gem to twelve different jewelers. Some dismissed it as junk (one said it was worth 49 cents!), but others shook with excitement when they held it. Hans Reymer gave the gem a valuation of $19,300. Mrs. Martin had accidentally come across a precious stone for just one dollar!
What’s it worth to follow Jesus all the way? In the above verse, Jesus is showing it makes complete sense to give up everything in order to purchase the fine pearl. The merchant realizes the incredible value of the discovery he has made, and urgently tries to buy it as soon as possible at whatever the cost. Clearly he’s not agonizing over the price – no, he knows that what he’s discovered is of such immeasurable value that, however long it takes, whatever the effort, whatever the cost, it will be worth it. Consequently his worry isn’t the sacrifice he’ll have to make to get it, but rather whether someone else will get there first and he’ll miss out on such a life-transforming and life-enhancing gift. He does it joyfully, knowing he has more than hit the jackpot. What’s it worth? Anything and everything.
Take stock today of the pearl you’ve found, and your priorities as a result.
Lord, there’s so much to be grateful for. I choose to give my all to you today. Amen!
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