Electron Lessons
The classic rabbinical way to teach is using a method called “stringing pearls.” (Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus by Lois Tverberg) Bits of wisdom, theology, and law strung together over time to create a “strand” of exquisite beauty and simplicity “by forcing the audience to LISTEN ATTENTIVELY and quickly leapfrog across scripture to catch the preacher’s point.” (Reading the Bible with Rabbi Jesus by Lois Tverberbg) Each “pearl” is secured by a knot of love. When this is done, “the words themselves become so excited to be together that they burst into flames.” This happens every time the HOLY SPIRIT reveals a new truth, gives understanding or convicts a heart. The Words of God burst into flame within the human heart.
First Pearl
It seems to me that becoming the Bride of Christ is like stringing pearls. It begins when you see the Bridegroom for the first time and something in your heart quickens. You know somehow this One is different from all the other potential suitors. This is The One and Only and your heart’s desire is to make Him your very own. It may be love at first sight for you, or a love developed over time and due to circumstances, but He has loved you since before time began. (Job 10:10-12; Psalm 139:13-16; Jeremiah 1:4-5; Ephesians 1:4-6; John 3:16)
I have wondered for years why this analogy? A bride and a groom used in scripture to show us the red thread of redemption woven through all God does. From Adam and Eve in the Garden to the Marriage Supper of the Lamb: Every single thing the Father does is to bring THIS Bride to His one and only Son. It is more apparent every day: The wedding celebration will soon begin.
I believe this strand of pearls is made of multiple strings: A Jewish Wedding is the foundation for understanding all of Scripture: the Bride’s preparation and Groom’s responsibilities, the wedding planning and timeline all tied together to become one exquisite piece given to the Bride by the Prince of Peace.
Pearl Irritations
Each lesson a pearl on one of the strands: Every pearl a masterpiece of creation. Pearls are created under adverse conditions: in deep, cold water inside a dark place. This gem is only revealed in death when the host is harvested, cut open, and its life extinguished. The creation, of this long, difficult process, is a perfect sphere of luminescent white. Its size depends on how long the process has taken. Each begins as a single grain of sand—some small irritation to the host.
What is the small irritation the Father is using to build a gem for you to leave behind? It is as different as the host itself. The death of the host is no longer avoided, because this is when the pearl is revealed and given. The sacrifice of your life for sharing the treasure with another.
This gem of the deep forged under God’s sovereign, watchful care: A daughter of the Most High God! His “pearl of great price.” (Matthew 13:45-46; Proverbs 2:4; Isaiah 33:6)
Pearl of Great Price by PricklyPearl
Let’s string some pearls together. Let’s truly become the Bride Christ died for!
Yvonne
