What is the best thing to have? When we see a candy bar we might think that it is the best thing in the world at that moment, but if we see brussel sprouts or okra we might shrug our shoulders.
So which one would YOU choose?
Many would want to inhale that decadent candy bar, but haven’t we been told that we need the vegetables because they are good for us. They will make us grow big and strong and brilliant, but at that one moment that candy bar is calling our name we really crave it! As we reflect on our wants and our needs we can observe that our “wants” are so much more tempting and exciting. But are our “wants” really infinitely more satisfying?
Jesus told a parable about a man who had a need to search for the finest treasure that would make his life complete. Jesus used a pearl to tell the story. Jesus said that when the man found a pearl that he thought was the most exquisite, he sold everything that he had so that he could buy it. (Matthew 13:45-46)
That man found something that he thought was worth giving everything he owned so that they could have it. Do you know what this thing was that Jesus was talking about? He wasn't talking about that beautiful pearl (or okra), he was talking about the kingdom of heaven. The kingdom of heaven is the greatest treasure one could ever desire. It is more precious than silver, gold, or jewels.
What could be more fulfilling than walking a spiritual life? This journey can lead us to the kingdom of heaven and allow us share a whole lot of grace on the way!
This week’s Sunday School lesson includes lessons on “wants vs needs,” Lego car races, pearl crafts and oyster cookie recipes! We encourage you to share your creations on your journey!