Matthew 13:14-52
Lead in #1: In each of the three parables Jesus tells in Matthew 13:44-52, we hear of people who are on a search for something they hope to find, a hidden treasure, a pearl of great price, and a large catch of fish. In the first parable, Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a treasure buried in a field but is accidently found. The finder is so excited, he sells everything to purchase the field so he can claim the treasure as his own. In the second parable, the Kingdom is like a merchant in search of fine pearls who sells everything when he finds the one he is looking for. In the third parable, the search is for a catch of fish where only the big ones are kept.
Prompt #1: What is the hidden treasure, the pearl of great price, or the great haul of fish that you would gladly dispose of everything that is yours in order to have?
Lead in #2: In the three parables Jesus tells, there is a search and a discovery. And so in life, as disciples of Jesus, as we stay the course we discover what it is that gives meaning to our lives, the very kingdom in our midst, the action and presence of God at work in our lives.
Prompt #2: What have been the search and discovery moments of your life?
Lead in #3: As we hear the parable of the pearl of great price that Jesus tells, it takes on even greater meaning if we consider for a moment who the parable might speak of. What if Christ were that merchant in search of that pearl of great price? And what if Christ is the one who gave up everything, including his life, just so he could claim us as his beloved brothers and sisters?
Prompt #3: Think of a time when you felt unlovable, but in that darkness God’s special love for you broke through to you in a special way.
Lead in #4: In Romans 8, Paul tells us that, “all things work for good for those who love God.” But that blessing is the result of an open heart.
Prompt #4: Reflect on a situation where you opened your heart, and something that looked very bleak at the time worked out in a way that you were not expecting.
Lead in #5: In Romans 8, Paul uses the word “predestined”.This word does not mean that we are locked into a destiny over which we have no control. Rather, it means that in Christ, God provides the grace that is abundant to all.
Prompt #5: What grace have you been “predestined” to have that God has provided you with for the benefit of all?