Emphasis Preaching Journal

Pearls were the most precious jewels in the ancient world. John envisioned the Heavenly City of God as having twelve "pearl" gates to welcome the righteous into their celestial reward. In his rich imagery, John of Patmos wants us to understand Heaven as an eternal kingdom beyond our ability to number its treasures or view its beauty. So often in life we forget the pearl of great price which is eternal life. Often we grasp for the glory and gold of earthly success at the expense of our neighbor and his or her needs.