The Hidden Pearl

I felt dissapointed today to read the Church Of England were considering removing foundational words from the Christening service. Sin, Saviour and Devil are words thought to be out of date. I was wondering where all this dumbing down can really lead to? The COE have taken the people pleasing approach for over a decade but it hasn't added to the congragation rather the reverse!

Sadly the Church and the name Christianity in general is having a really bad press. How can Christians hold their heads high above the barrage of criticism and continue to proclaim Christ?

I believe the answer is in THE PEARL OF GREAT PRICE. To look at an oyster you could never believe it contains something extrordinarily beautiful, white and pure. The shell is scabby and dirty. Oysters are really hard to find. It takes perseverance and going deep to find one!

Jesus said "the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls,  who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Matthew 13:45-46

The merchant was seeking. Jesus is the pearl of great price. Jesus promised all those whom seek Him would find Him.

It's so easy to find fault with those within the church but it takes special effort to look for the pearl!

To find the pearl, go deep, persevere and look past the grubbiness and perhaps like me you will find Jesus. Pure, white, righteous King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus of Nazareth!