Pearls of Great Price

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Matthew 13:45-46

Mark and I have been blessed with three remarkable daughters. When I was a young woman setting off to college, I did not think that I would get married and have children. I was going to live an artist's carefree life. I thought of the role of wife and mother as a burden. It is funny now to even remember how I was when I was young since I was proved so wrong. There is nothing that gives me more joy in my life than my family. They have taught me and blessed me more than I could have ever imagined. I don't live a day nor barely take a breath without thanking God for them. They bring me joy and laughter, help me to keep from getting stuck and when I need help they are there for me. Our daughters are all bright and caring women who are working, each in their own way, to make the world a better place. They put little stock in wealth and fame but rather they care about helping others. I am so grateful to God for these women, Emily, Ariel and Phoebe. Through these pearls of great price I have understood more fully the love of God.

Today Jesus teaches about the kingdom of God and likens it to a man finding pearls of great price. The man sells all he has to possess these. God's desire for us and love for us is so great that giving up all for us is done willingly. God puts a premium on loving us, on caring for the world. Like a parent who knows the blessing of children, God seeks us out, aches for us and offers everything for our lives.

May we recall the pearls of great price in our lives today and know that God loves and cares for us more even than we care for these. May we let our pearls know how precious they truly are. May we celebrate God's love for us by loving well those people who have blessed us completely.