A parable of Jesus · Part 10 of 20 · 3 min
The Beautiful Pearl
Jesus told a story about a merchant looking for beautiful pearls.
The merchant knew his work. He examined pearls carefully and recognized the ones with great value.
He had seen many pearls, in different shapes and sizes. But he kept searching.
One day he found an extraordinary pearl.
The merchant looked at the beautiful pearl. It was so valuable that he knew he did not need to search for a better one.
He went to sell everything he owned. With the money, he bought that pearl.
He had chosen the most valuable thing he had found.
The pearl brought him great joy.
Jesus compared the kingdom of heaven with this story.
Knowing him and receiving his love are worth more than riches. He gives things coins cannot buy: his friendship, forgiveness, and help to live with love.
Perhaps you have a favorite toy. It is good to enjoy it and care for it.
But if it breaks one day, you are still precious. Jesus' love still stays with you.
The merchant recognized the pearl's value. We can learn to recognize how precious Jesus is.
When we hear how he welcomed children, helped sick people, and forgave, we discover his heart.
We do not have to pay him to love us. He welcomes us because he cares.
We can respond by trusting him and choosing kindness, even when we have to give up something we wanted.
No beautiful thing can replace someone who truly loves us. And Jesus loves us with a love that never ends.
Jesus tells us a story, and his love stays with us.
Retelling of Matthew 13:45–46.
Supporting reading: Christ's Object Lessons, chapter 9. Open the English book
Talk about it together
- Wisdom
- Faith
- Love
A verse to remember
“who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”
Matthew 13:46NKJV
- What did the merchant do to get the pearl he found?
- How would you feel if a favorite toy broke?
- What does this story remind you about your worth when you lose something?
Activity · 2–5 minutes
What Makes People Precious
Choose a favorite object already nearby, or imagine one. Say what you like about it. Then name one quality of each person playing. Remember that people remain precious even when their belongings break.
Try it today: Things can break; Jesus’ love for me remains.
More stories with these values
Crossword
Open the interactive activity or prepare a printable sheet for home, classroom, or family.
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