[45] “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, [46] who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it. (Matthew 13:45–46)
What do you value as highly as the pearl in Jesus’ parable?
Pragmatically, my first thought was medical treatment that could save the life a loved one. Practically, my best comparison would be a rare Bible. It really doesn’t matter what we chose as our “pearl.” What matters is that we clearly understand the implications of the purchase.
Purchasing our “pearl” means we have devalued everything else in life. Everything pales in comparison to the pearl. It also means that life has become less complex. We have one priority, not a number of priorities. It also means we have a “north star” for navigating daily life. All of our decisions are guided by our “pearl.”
So it is with the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus gave his life to take down the barrier of sin that stood between us and God. In his resurrection, Jesus verified that the barrier was shattered. Through God-given faith in Jesus, we now are in this Kingdom of Heaven.
Since we have graciously obtained this Kingdom of Heaven, our relationship with God is the highest priority in our lives. All our decisions in daily life are influenced by being members of the Kingdom of Heaven. We strive to ensure our place in this kingdom is never placed at risk.
What makes this especially exciting is that this kingdom is eternal. Hence the title the “Kingdom of Heaven.” God will not only create a new heavens and new earth, but upon the resurrection we will inhabit the new heavens and new earth.
The Kingdom of Heaven is truly a “pearl of great value.”
(A Second Look devotions are written for the congregations of the Ohio District LCMS.)
Kevin Wilson 360 