Matthew 13:45-50, The Parables of the Pearls and the New

45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, 46 who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”

47 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. 48 When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous 50 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

Comments

Pearls were of great value in the ancient world. In this parable, prudent financial practice gave way to an extravagant action. Likewise, we too are to be all in when it comes to seeing Jesus as the most valuable part of our lives.

In the Sea of Galilee, fishermen would drag a large net between two boats. Then the good fish would be separated from the bad. This parable returns to the theme of division, and like the wheat and weeds, it illustrates the judgment of the “bad” after being separated by the angels. So, what is the work of angels? They are not only God’s messengers, but they await their work on the day of judgment.

Prayer

O Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, we pray thee to set thy passion, cross, and death, between thy judgment and our souls, now and in the hour of our death. Give mercy and grace to the living, pardon and rest to the dead, to thy holy Church peace and concord, and to us sinners everlasting life and glory; who with the Father and the Holy Spirit livest and reignest, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

(BCP, p. 489)