Encouragement

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Hidden Treasure
© 2012

by

Stephen A. Peterson


Army Sergeant Michelle Fowler had returned from duty in Afghanistan. As she passed through customs, a customs agent asked if she had anything to declare. She responded that she had nothing to declare. The man inspecting her duffle bag took out her white leather, marked up Bible then proceeded to flip through the pages. He then took the book by its covers held it up, shook it several times, then dropped to the floor.

“I beg your pardon, Sarge,” he said. “I’m doing this to determine if illegal items might be between these pages. You look like an honest, honorable young woman. However, if you can believe this, just a couple of days ago a passenger smuggled in ten packages of cocaine in a Bible very similar to this one. Still another person had a couple of thin sheets of gold in another Bible worth almost $3000.00. I didn’t think you would do that being a soldier and fighting in defense of this nation but I’ve got to make sure. I hope you understand, Sarge. The bad guys, as you know, will try anything to sneak contraband into the United States for evil reasons and motives. But thank you for your patience and understanding. I also want to thank you for your service to this great nation as well!

Once her inspection was completed, Sergeant Fowler thought to herself. “You know that custom’s agent didn’t realize that my Bible is actually full of valuable treasures he completely overlooked. The invaluable treasurers hidden away were very, very easy to find even if he had taken a brief moment to check. There is a gift box sticker next to Galatians 5; 22-23 (the gifts of the Holy Spirit). When I became a Christian seven years ago. Or that happy face sticker next to the 23rd Psalm after my parents lost everything in a house fire three years ago. However, within six months their house was rebuilt. The structure was better than the first. Personal keepsake damage was to a minimum. So my mom and dad’s new home turned to be a blessing though there was some difficulty for them. There is a gold star by John 20: 19-21. I read these verses often to be at peace and not to be afraid of those who mock me, tell me that I am a fool for my belief in God or threaten my life. For this verse was after His Resurrection when He appeared to the frighten apostles. He showed Himself in His glory as well as to say to His apostles: ‘See my broken, wounded body, this is what you can expect. But so not be afraid! I will be with you now and forever!”

Sergeant Foreman thought to herself: “Why would I want to put drugs, money or valuables in this Bible when it is already full of treasures that are much more valuable and priceless?”

Sergeant Fowler’s treasures are her’s. It is your task to find your own. It is easy! Pick up or purchase your own Bible! Tab it, highlight it, take notes in it and refer to it daily as well as when you need a pick me up!!! …and let not your heart be troubled by the most desperate of circumstances or situations. Your solutions are right there as near as your cell phone and, in fact, is your direct line to the Almighty! Open it and enjoy your treasures!

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