The Treasure and the Pearl

Scripture: Matthew 13:44-46 (Click link for scripture in Bible Gateway)

44 “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field. 45 “Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. 46 When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it! (Matthew 13:44–46 NLT)

In the first story a man discovers a hidden treasure in a field. He’s so excited, but to have the treasure he has to buy the field! Most anything we want in life comes with a field attached! The question is, how bad do you want the treasure? Are you willing to take on all the responsibilities that come with it?

The second story is about a man who loves pearls. He’s a pearl expert and when he sees the Pearl of Pearls, he knows it’s the best and that it’s his once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a King’s Crown grade pearl. But to own it, he has to let go all the other pearls he has, he has to let go of his gold, his silver, his rubies, his emeralds, and even that signed photo of the Beatles he keeps in his safe! In fact when he gets the pearl, he better be really happy with it, because it’s all he’s got!

The first man was taking a short-cut through his neighbor’s field on his way home from town. He stumbled on a precious treasure and he was willing to take what came with it. The second man was looking for pearls and when he saw this pearl, he was willing to give up everything else he had to own it.

Jean and I stumbled on a treasure in a field in the early 70’s when we were so privileged to be part of the Jesus Movement. We sold our business, volunteered in ministry for some time on the proceeds of the business, then recognized the pearl of God’s calling to be missionaries. So we sold everything again and for nearly two decades that was all we had. We are so grateful to God for the privilege!

Now we’re another two decades along and both stories still apply. I’ve noticed as I get older and love my comforts more, the challenge gets harder, not easier! What’s your Treasure? What’s your Pearl?

Prayer:

Father, I’ve no regrets on buying the Field and on purchasing the Pearl. It’s been a great life! But if there’s Treasure and another Pearl. Please don’t let me miss them!