Matthew 13:45
Who is this merchant man, seeking pearls? It is Christ himself. We do not seek the Lord, the Lord seeks us. Jesus seeks something wonderful here on this planet. He is looking for gems in an unlikely place. He knows what he will find, and that makes it all worth while.
Matthew 13:46
Notice, if you will, one of the strangest things about this parable. The merchant man buys the pearl. He does not find it, he buys it. If he is a merchant, it would be bad business to pay full price. Yet, he buys the pearl. Why? The Jews did not value pearls quite the same as did the Gentiles, thus this could explain the situation. However one explains it, the meaning is the same. Christ purchases something which the world does not see the value of.
Indeed, pearls are formed in a way that parallels the formation of the church. They are the result of irritation. They form as the result of pain. In the same way, persecution grows the church. And this growth is precious to Jesus Christ.
Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 4:1-7:29
Scripture Memory: 1 John 3:7 “Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.”
Prayer: Heavenly Father, may we all be precious pearls in Your eyes! You value us so much! To think that the eternal God of heaven and earth values us is so amazing. We would never think it if You had not told us it was so. Thank You for giving us so much. Thank You for loving us in such a manner that You have given us Your own Son for our salvation. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.
Prayer Requests: Pray for a man who needs salvation.
Journal Entry #13200