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She never really cared that much for the piece of carved stone that her
deceased husband had found in an old quarry, but Ruth Beeston thought it
would serve well to mark the burial place of her dead cat, Wrinkle. She
decided to put it up for auction, however, when a local art historian
discovered that it was a thousand year old carving of the apostle Peter.
Wrinkle’s former headstone brought $383,000 when it was offered at
auction (World, December 25, 2004).
This sort of thing seems to happen often (at least to other people).
Someone finds some old thing that everyone thinks is worthless, and then
it is discovered to be a priceless antique. Just because something is
old, it is not necessarily valuable. Some things are true antiques, and
some are just “junque.” But some things are really valuable.
Consider how the Bible, a truly ancient book is treated. It is old─the
newest parts being over 1900 years old, and some parts even much older.
Many think that because of its age, it can’t really be worth much. And
yet, to those with the proper discernment, it is the most valuable book
ever written.
Paul told Timothy, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God [is
literally ‘God breathed’], and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof,
for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God
may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” Not only does
it give us all that we need, but it is profitable and relevant. It is
just as relevant today as when it was written hundreds of years ago.
Ruth Beeston required an art historian to tell her that she unknowingly
had something of real value. Surely we understand today how valuable the
Bible is, that it is profitable to us for doctrine, reproof, correction,
and instruction in righteousness. Unfortunately, many just use that
family Bible as a place to store dried flowers, recipes, and the family
tree. Wrinkle’s headstone was so much more than Ruth thought. What about
the Bible? Have you realized the hidden treasures within?
Wrinkle's Headstone
by Bob Prichard
www.oxfordchurchofchrist.com |
