13 MARCH

TREASURES IN THE BIBLE (2)

“It is the glory of God to conceal a matter,  but the glory of kings is to search out a matter.” (Proverbs 25:2)

“…To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (Revelation 1:5–6)

Treasures are hidden in the Scriptures. Let us find them–after all, we have been made kings and priests. I have read the following story (as culled from Inspirational Stories) a few times but I am moved on each occasion: When James was a college student, he had admired a lovely sports car. He knew that his parents could afford it so he asked for the car as his graduation gift. Graduation day came and his father said to him: “Your mum and I are very proud to have such a good son like you. We love you.” He handed him a beautifully wrapped gift. James felt disappointed but curious so he opened the box and saw a leather–bound Bible. “You are so wealthy and all you can give me is a Bible?” James shouted at his father with anger and left the house.

Time passed and James became a successful businessman. He was happily married and had two children. However, his soul still hurt due to the broken relationship with his father. James had not seen him since his graduation day. One day, he received a note that his father had died and according to the will, he had inherited all his possessions.

When James arrived at his father‘s house and began to look for some important papers, he found the Bible, still gift–wrapped, and sadness filled his heart. With tears in his eyes, he opened the Bible and read a verse that was underlined by his father: “And if ye, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your Heavenly Father give to those who ask Him?” Suddenly a car key dropped from the Bible. He knew that it was the key to the same car that he desired at that time. James also found a tag with the date of his graduation on it and the words “Paid in full.” This story depicts the love of God for us, his children.

ACTION: Set a target for Bible reading.

PRAYER: Help me, Lord, to esteem your Word and diligently find the treasures in it and appreciate your love and gifts.