PEARLS OF GREAT VALUE

I own a string of pearls that was given to me by my husband. I have quite a bit of jewelry, but this necklace is very special to me for a couple of reasons. My husband purchased it while he was serving one year in the army in Viet Nam. That was a difficult year of separation for us and I have always treasured the memory this string of jewels provides. Another reason for it being very prized by me is its monetary and symbolic worth.

I believe a pearl symbolizes something that comes from pain. A pearl is developed in nature from an irritant within a mollusk. The oyster or other ocean shellfish coats the irritant with a beautiful covering over the course of several years. Therefore, a pearl is born and created at a great price over a considerable period of time.

Pearls of wisdom are like that for me. They have been formed at a great price and come from the suffering I have experienced or from the suffering of others. I gained many of my pearls of wisdom from the life and words of Jesus who suffered a lot. I also have gained a lot of my wisdom from the experiences of my clients as they share their personal agony. My own suffering has afforded me familiarity with painful things fashioned at a great price as well. When I use these “pearls”, I have learned to use them wisely.

There is a verse in the Bible that speaks of not throwing your “pearls” before swine (Matthew 7:6). A pearl in ancient times was greatly valued. I am interested in what it means “not to give” your valuable gems of wisdom or what you have learned in a sacred way, to those who cannot hear those gems. The Bible says they may turn it around against you, trample it under their feet, and tear you to pieces (Matthew 7:6).

I have some ideas on what my view of what it means to not throw away pearls of great cost, but I would appreciate a sharing of your views on this one before I give my interpretation.

Please feel free to share an anecdote, example or your opinion.

Blessings,
Susan