The Pearl by John Steinbeck was our big reading assignment in eighth grade English, and a large portion of one’s final grade hung on the attendant term paper we were to write. The book was somewhat accessible for me at that point in my rural, mostly barefoot life. I sensed warnings about greed, but at the same time was inspired by Kino’s tenacity in going after what he perceived to be the most important thing in the world. I was also moved by his commitment to those he cared about and his desire to give them something better than what they had.
The book introduced me to John Steinbeck, and I became a fan for life. Years later, when I read that a museum in honor of my literary hero would be established out West, I settled in my mind to one day go. Growing up in the backroads of North Carolina a trip to Salinas, California, seemed no less daunting than a trip to Mexico. Or Norway. But getting there someday became a priority for me, a ‘bucket list’ item, a highly sought-after jewel.
In the Gospel of Matthew, the Bible speaks of the value of finding “a treasure hidden in a field,” or the, “one pearl of great price.” In these parables, Jesus emphasizes that something few people take notice of— the kingdom of heaven, and one’s place in it— is worth forsaking all to attain.
Most everybody knows that “the pearl” of Matthew 13 provided (however loosely) a premise for Steinbeck’s shortest book. But in Jesus’ story of the quest for life’s most priceless pearl, there is no danger of tragedy but only the promise of victory. How? Because in apprehending the true pearl beyond price— a relationship with God— one doesn’t lose their soul but actually gains it.
Many forfeit their character for something of this world; Countless souls, past and present, have chosen to opt-out from the offer of a city whose gates are pearl and streets are gold (Rev. 21:21). Jesus is telling us that to invest all in the promised treasures of God is actually the wisest thing we could do.
Necessarily, prioritizing one thing requires backing away from something else. As Lenten season approaches (February 14-March 28, 2024), Christians the world over will be motivated to “take spiritual inventory” and amend themselves accordingly. During Lent, Christians pray and give gratitude to God for salvation through Jesus’ death on the cross. They block out time to read Scripture, doing their utmost to comprehend and comply.
Lent is a time for believers to give extra diligence to discern what the Holy Spirit is prompting them to do— turn away from sin and cease behaviors and attitudes displeasing to God. Just as Jesus our Savior (and example) fasted 40 days in the wilderness, Lent is a time to fast 40 days from anything in which we’ve bestowed love that belongs only to God.
Imagine how quickly, thoroughly, and positively the world would change if we lived a life of Lent. “Lent” is a word associated with springtime, a fresh start, and the days growing longer and having more daylight. Christ’s resurrection is God’s guarantee that a new beginning for this world lies just ahead— and our place in His coming kingdom is secured by putting our faith in Jesus.
It is said that pearls are created through suffering; the treasures Jesus offers us were purchased through suffering, as well. In this world, it is tempting to give up hope. But Christ is as close by as a prayer! Tangible change in our lives can happen, and lasting peace and joy are possible! Through Lent, we turn away from a fallen world and allow God to change our sinful nature. We recommit ourselves to that most worthy quest, the pursuit of God Himself.
