WORK, AN EXPENSIVE PEARL?

From Rev Sue Ann Yarbrough

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

Meditation
I have always been impressed by this merchant. He is on a mission. He knows what he is looking for and he is not interested in squandering his resources on pearls of lesser quality.

​He seems to be patient. Yet, when he finds one of great value, he does not hesitate. Even if he needs to sell all he has to purchase that one pearl, he seems willing to do so without reservation. I admire such focus and dedication.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

While Jesus was probably talking about developing an unwavering focus on God, this evening I find myself thinking about the many people who have dedicated themselves to their work in long term care communities. How they have worked through multiple shutdowns and created inspired ways to tend to their residents. I believe that many of the staff members have viewed their work as a pearl of great price, one that is worth the investment of time and heart. I am grateful for their dedication and tenacity, and I am blessed to know some of them as friends.

% of sale goes to SpiritCare

I recently came across this quote by Father John Main, the founder of the World Community of Christian Meditation.
I think it speaks of the pearl of great price that is indeed found in our dedication to God and to one another:
 "I suppose it is the completeness of the commitment that frightens us. But commit yourself but once and you will know from your own experience the love that casts out all fear. It takes many people years to come to that moment of commitment. Yet whether it takes years, months, weeks, or days is of no importance. All that is of importance is that each of us, as best we can in these earthen vessels, is as open as we can be to the essential truth of union." Father John Main, Silence and Stillness in Every Season

Prayer
Holy One, we thank you for guiding us in and through these difficult times. We thank you for inspiring dedication in those you call to serve. We thank you for the love that has been generated, and for the friendships that have bloomed, and for the union you have called us to. May we never take this time for granted. May we always be willing to commit and recommit ourselves to you and to one another. May we never be afraid to serve you with all our hearts, all our minds, all our strength. 
In gratitude we pray,  Amen

Please take good care of one another, and I hope to see some of you very soon!
--
Rev. Sue Ann Yarbrough, Associate Pastor
San Lorenzo Community Church, United Church of Christ
www.slzchurch.org 
www.hearthpsalms.blogspot.com ​