City Life Starter

Written by Megan Meier

The Word

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” 

Matthew 13:45-46 (NIV)

“As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. ‘Come, follow me,’ Jesus said, ‘and I will send you out to fish for people.’ At once they left their nets and followed him.”

Matthew 4:18-20 (NIV)

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Matthew 6:21 (NIV)

Reflection

The disciples, like the merchant in the parable, were anticipating their treasure, the Messiah. When they were called, they left something they valued behind to follow Him. Simon (later called Peter), Andrew, James, and John left their nets and boats, Matthew left his tax collector booth, and Simon the Zealot left his revolutionary group. The Bible doesn’t say how Jesus’ ministry was funded (maybe part of it came from the gifts the Wise Men brought), or how the disciples made money after Jesus ascended into Heaven. Maybe they were full-time missionaries, maybe like Paul, they used a trade to fund their ministry (he became a tent-maker after leaving the Pharisees). However they made a living, they lived all for God. They knew what real treasure was, and how to take care of what they had been given.

Application

What’s your treasure? What’s most important to you: money, career, family, friends, entertainment, God? Only One will always be with you and will never let you down. The only treasure that will ever last is your relationship with God. How do you take care of this treasure? Like an earthly relationship, it requires care and investment. Talk to God like you would a friend, after all, He’s the best friend you’ll have. Getting into God’s Word, not just reading the surface, but really applying it to your life, allows God to speak to you. 

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You so much for the Pearl of Great Price. Help me to take care of my relationship with You. In Yeshua’s name I pray, amen.