The Pearls of Cancer, December 28
Inside the Cancer Journey: Daily Reflections for Those Coping with Cancer
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By Justin Wood
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it” (Matthew 13:45-46 NIV).
A beautiful pearl is birthed from trauma. A pearl forms when an oyster encounters a life-and-death battle from an invading parasite (or some other deadly irritant). The oyster literally fights for its life by creating layers of defense around the deadly invader. Over time, the oyster’s fight with death creates a beautiful pearl that hides the trauma within its beauty. Moreover, pearls are the only gems created by living creatures, and they require no human polishing or human cutting. Pearls are the very symbol of perfection.
In today’s short parable, we see a merchant who gives up everything to buy a pearl. The parable can be viewed in two different ways:
First, maybe God is the merchant who gave up all that He had in order to buy you—His pearl of greatest value.
Second, maybe we are the merchants who need to see the good news of God’s kingdom as a treasure that is worth everything.
Either way that you want to interpret it, the pearl is so extremely valuable.
If you have fought with cancer, you have some pearls in you. Have you stopped to consider the beauty that has formed within you through your trauma? It may be hard to see the pearl forming while you fight for life, but those pearls are there. Moreover, it sometimes takes an oyster years to form a pearl. Likewise, it may take years for you to see the pearls that have come from the trauma in your life. But they are there. Keep looking.
Practically, what are some pearls that have formed in you? Maybe a stronger relationship with family or a caregiver? Maybe a powerful new truth that you understand? Maybe a love for life and a respect for the short time we have on earth? Maybe a closer walk with God?
When you find those pearls, hold onto them. Don’t hide them away. Place them around your neck. Hang them from your ears and on your wrist. Carry them proudly. Don’t be afraid to share your pearls that have been birthed from your trauma. Someone around you needs to see your pearls. Show them.
Pray: Jesus, I want to see past the trauma and see the pearls in my life. Open my eyes to see the pearls of beauty in my life. Amen.
Your Turn: Write out the trauma and the pearls you have. Who needs to be encouraged with the beautiful pearls that you now possess? Share your story and your pearls with others.
Justin Wood, Childhood Cancer Survivor
Justin lives in Bowling Green, Kentucky with his wife and six homeschooled kids. Through his life, Justin has become a wonderful mix of entrepreneur, English teacher, and foreign missionary. He is a survivor of childhood cancer. Justin is very grateful for Cancer Companions and the opportunity to be a part of this devotional writing process.
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