Jesus says: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls.  When they find one pearl of great value, they sell everything they have to buy it.”

Matthew 13:45-46

Notes for Contemplation as You Use this Devotional:

• In this passage often called “The Parable of the Treasure and the Pearl,” shared only by the Gospel Writer called Matthew, Jesus teaches how precious the Kingdom of Heaven is.
• The Kingdom of Heaven is not an exclusive club for a chosen few or somewhere you go when you die. A place both within your consciousness (mindset) and a demonstration of that consciousness in the world, it’s present wherever you are when you direct your energy and intention in life-affirming ways.
• Everyone has their own realization of this kingdom, based on their mindset. Metaphysically, the Kingdom of Heaven is your growing awareness of your indwelling divinity. Like Jesus, you can know your oneness with God and continually expand this sacred kingdom by expressing your divinity.
• The merchant prizes this kingdom so highly that it’s the only one they seek. Being a connoisseur of the finest pearls, they’ll accept no imitation. It must be the real deal, and they won’t waste any time or energy seeking less.
• Martha Smock, long-time editor of Daily Word, reminds you that you have the power within you to change your thinking and alter your feelings because you can’t afford a negative outlook. This doesn’t mean that you spiritually bypass problems by sweeping them under the rug or pretend you’re happy when you aren’t. It means you direct your energy and attention toward the best for you and loved ones in your care.  You determine how you’ll experience the Kingdom of Heaven for yourself, even when life isn’t perfect.
• Martha Smock also says: “The pearl of great price that you can afford is trust in the outworking of good in all that concerns you, trust that in the circumstances and conditions that seem difficult, God is there, God is at work.”
• Demonstration is your evidence of how well you live your life. You demonstrate your ability to live in the Kingdom of Heaven by deciding what mindset you can afford. Here are two lists to compare:

Contemplation Questions:

As you reflect on your life and circumstances, ask yourself:

• In what ways do I invest my energy in what I
  • can’t afford?
    • List, word map, or illustrate the ways.
  • can afford?
    • List, word map, or illustrate the ways.

• When I imagine the Kingdom of Heaven, what do I see?
  • List, word map, or illustrate all you imagine.

• In what ways is my intuition guiding me to this place?
  • List, word map, or illustrate all the ways.

• What are at least three (3) ways I can live in the Kingdom of Heaven now?
  • List, word map, or illustrate all the ways you imagine.

Use this devotional whenever you want to transform your outlook or enrich your experiences.  Be grounded in the present.  Consider what you’re investing (increasing) and what you’re spending (depleting).  Even if you’re unsure about something’s value, leave space to be shown and let your intuition guide you.  Know that your energy and time are precious, so discern your price for sharing them.

© 2024 – Rev. Jennifer L. Sacks – All rights reserved.

Photo from Shutterstock by Hanahstocks.