God’s Treasure

Proverbs 8:8-11

“8 All the words of my mouth are righteous; there is nothing twisted or crooked in them.  9 They are all straight to one who understands and right to those who find knowledge. 10 Take my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold; 11 for wisdom is better than jewels, and all that you may desire cannot compare with her.”

In the church where I was raised, there was a woman who was raising six children in a small home in the public housing projects.  Her husband was an alcoholic who was unable to hold a job.  I thought of them as being poor.  And I saw her as being a victim of poverty.  

But now, as an adult, I see her differently.  I see her as a woman of extraordinary faith.  She was a cheerful person, not fake, but deep down in her soul,  cheerful that only a mature faith can give.  

Her children were brought to church each Sunday, dressed, brushed, and shined.  She was involved in the church; teaching a children’s Sunday School class and serving on various committees.  She sang in the choir, and as her children became old enough, each of them sang with her.  

Some of her children went to college.  One became a minister.  Most are married and have good lives and families of their own.  One of her daughters was later murdered, and it was her faith and her faith community that got her through.

Her husband found Christ and became a member of her church,  and, of course, he sang in the choir with her.  

I no longer see her as a victim of poverty.  

In fact, she may have been the richest person I have ever known.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)