Awaiting The Final Word. A Story To Help Illustrate The Resurrection

This is a story that illustrates the despair of the tomb and the joy of the good news of the resurrection.  It is taken from the pages of history. Illustrations like this capture the imagination and help bring the point home to the hearers.

AWAITING THE FINAL WORD

A STORY TO HELP ILLUSTRATE THE RESURRECTION

Many years ago the great general Wellington faced Napoleon and his army.  It would be a battle to end the series of wars and bring peace to Europe.

This was before the telegraph, telephone, internet, or nightly news.  The outcome of the battle of Waterloo would take days to reach the capitals of Europe.  London, in particular, was anxious to learn the fate of Europe. The news was brought by sailing vessel to the south coast of England, and then flags would be raised to spell out the message.  The semaphore towers all across the land relayed the news by raising flags.

On top of Westminster Cathedral, the tallest building in London, lookouts watched the distant flag towers spell out the messages.  The first word was "Wellington."  They waited for the next word. "Defeated."

On the horizon, a bank of fog rolled in from the coast covering the last part of the message.  The city was in turmoil and fear.  It was clear that the message was that Wellington was defeated, that Napoleon was unstoppable and England would fall.

After a time the fog lifted and the entire message was visible to all, "Wellington defeated the enemy." The city and all of the land was filled with joyful celebration.

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When Jesus was put in the tomb all his disciples and those who loved him were in despair and sorrow.  It appeared that the enemy had defeated their king that sin and death had conquered, but on the morning of the third day, the darkness was lifted.  The good news that Jesus had risen from the grave spread and filled his disciples with joy and gladness. The message was that Jesus defeated sin and death.

 (c)Adron Dozat 5/16/15

The Zookeeper And The Not So Dead Tiger, An Illustration of Grace

This is a retelling of a true story as related in a newspaper about thirty years ago.  It is a great example of grace and mercy.  I tell it to the kids in my Church Bible Class as part of a lesson on Salvation.

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THE ZOOKEEPER AND THE NOT SO DEAD TIGER

In the city was a famous zoo.  One of the greatest attractions was the Big Cats House where lions, tigers, panthers, and other large "cats" were kept.  Around the building were the big cat's exhibits; these were large enclosures that had a deep wide channel, to separate the animals from the people who wanted to see them.  The channel was too deep for the cats to climb and too wide for them to jump over.  People could enjoy seeing the animals without cage bars and the animals had a lot of room to roam and be happy.

One day a new tiger named Princess Sheba was brought to the zoo.  Everybody hoped the new tiger would get along with the one they already had, named Kahn.  The people watched as the two met for the first time, but were horrified when the two tigers began to fight.  No one ever saw tigers fight before and it was a dreadful thing to see.  The battle was fierce!  The snarling was louder than anyone imagined.  The Tigers thrashed and tumbled over each other in a blur.  They ripped at each other with huge bloody claws and tore into each other with terrible fangs.  Even though it was a horrible fight it ended soon and Kahn was dead. His body fell into the channel.

Randy Wilson was the zookeeper whose job was to take care of the lions and tigers.  His heart broke that the beautiful rare tiger was dead.

After Princess Sheba was chased back into her den Randy went down into the channel enclosure with ropes and tackle to lift out the dead tiger.  It would take a crane since this adult tiger weighed about six hundred pounds.  Randy set the ropes and tackle down next to the tiger that he loved so much.  In sadness, he leaned over and put his hand on Kahn's bloody shoulder.

The moment he touched the tiger it growled and got up on its feet!  Kahn's head was low and threatening, he curled back his lips and showed huge teeth stained with blood.

Randy was facing a wild tiger, one that was injured and angry.  It is said that there is no creature as dangerous as one that is injured.  Randy was sure the tiger would spring on him and kill him.  They were in the channel and there was no place to run or hide.  A single swipe of the tiger's claws would rip him open.

Kahn turned.  Instead of attacking Randy the tiger slowly walked back to his den and lay down.

Kahn gave grace to the Zookeeper.

(c) Adron 5/2/15

Saved By A Song, The True Story Of The Soldier Who Sang On Guard Duty.

This is a true story. It tells about God's grace and his protection.

SAVED BY A SONG, THE TRUE STORY OF THE SOLDIER WHO SANG ON GUARD DUTY

Ira Sankey had a beautiful voice and was the most renowned singer of Gospel songs in his generation.  As a singer, he accompanied D.L. Moody on his preaching tours, revivals and crusades for the Gospel.

One Christmas Eve Mr. Sankey was on a steamboat going up an east coast river.  When it was known that the famous singer was on board many entreated him to sing. They gathered in the open on the deck and Mr. Snakey prayed to the Lord to show him which song to sing.  Then looking to heaven he sang

"Savior, like a shepherd, lead us. Much we need Thy tender care!"

Everyone was moved by his song of devotion as it rolled over the deck and was carried over the waters.

When he was finished, the crowd returned below to the warmth of cabins but one man remained behind. Coming up to the singer he asked. "Did you ever serve in the Union Army during the war between the states?"

"Yes," replied Mr. Sankey.

"Did you do guard duty at night, on the one bright moonlight night in 1862?" The man continued.

"Yes." Answered  Mr. Sankey.

"Well," the stranger said. "I served in the Confederate army. I also was out on that same night.  I saw you while I hid in the shadows and raised my gun and took aim at you.  You were standing alone in the bright moonlight.  I was about to pull the trigger but you looked up to heaven and began to sing:

'Savior, like a Shepherd, lead us, much we need Thy tender care!'"

When I heard that song I couldn't shoot you!"

(c) Adron 4/2/15

The Little Girl Who Wanted To See Jesus, And The Lesson She Learned

This is an illustration of the thing that most often gets in the way of experiencing Jesus in your life.

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THE LITTLE GIRL WHO WANTED TO SEE JESUS

Emily and her mother, Mrs. Cook, were visiting a friend who had a large modern house in the city.  Emily was excited to explore the huge house with its many rooms and wonderful furnishings.

One of the treasures she discovered was a beautiful picture of Jesus as the Good Shepherd; it was mounted on the wall over the headboard of the bed where she was to sleep.  She didn't notice it until she lay in the bed and put her head on the pillow, then she saw it across the room reflected in the dressing table mirror.

With a gasp, she cried, "Look, mommy, I see Jesus in the mirror."  Emily crawled out from under the blankets and struggled to see the picture until she was on her knees atop the mattress.  When she tried to see the picture in the mirror she only saw her own reflection there and not the Good Shepherd.

She lay down on her back and then she saw Jesus.  "There he is!"  She sat up once more climbing back to her knees. "What?  Oh, he is gone again."

At last, Emily lay down frustrated. "Oh Mommy, when I can't see myself then I can see Jesus, but when all I see is myself then I can't see Jesus.

It is so true that we can't see Jesus when our vision is filled with Self.

© Adron 4/3/15

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The Twelve Year Old Missionary

When Snow Flower was twelve years old she was a student in a mission school in China where she learned to love the Gospel and Jesus. She was happy there, she learned she was important to God who loved her and that to Him she was not a lower class but a treasure worth dying for on the cross.

One day, her parents came. "We cannot pay any more." They said. "We have no money. You have to go to work and earn your living." They told her that she had to go to a home in a city thirty miles away to work as a servant girl.

Snow Flower came to the room of Dr. Richardson, the missionary, to say goodbye.

"I will be the only Christian in that whole city." she wept.

"Yes, you will, but you know who is going with you, don't you."

"Oh, Yes!" Snow Flower said joyfully, as a smile spread across her face. "The Lord Jesus will be with me."

In the distant city, Snow Flower continued to follow the Lord. She spoke openly about Jesus. The family she served would worship idols, but she refused and would not offer incense to the gods of the house. She suffered for the Lord and was mistreated, but she accepted it with joy. She continued to show kindness, forgiveness and smiled brightly as she did the hard housekeeping duties.

A few months after Snow Flower left for the city two men came to the mission school walking the thirty miles to get there.   "We have come to speak to the schoolmaster."  They said. "We have been sent to ask for someone to come back with us and teach us about Jesus. We want you to start a school."

Over the past years different missionaries tried to start working in that city but always had been asked to leave.  Dr. Richardson asked, "Why now. What has changed? The men of your city asked us to leave before."

"A girl has come to a home in our city. She says that she is a Christian. A city official lives in that home and many visit it, whenever someone visits they see her happy face, and her kind, gentle manner. When she is asked why she is happy she says, "It is because I love Jesus, and Jesus loves me and is always with me."

Then they said to Dr. Robertson, "We want the other girls in our city to be like that Christian girl. Please come to our city, tell us all about this Jesus, and build a Jesus school."

Dr. Robertson was amazed. A city in China became open to the Good News about Jesus because a twelve-year-old girl witnessed for Jesus with her lips and with her life.

 (c)Adron Dozat 12/2/14

An Illustration Of God's Faithfulness

MISS. FELICITY BROWN'S REWARD
AN ILLUSTRATION OF GOD'S FAITHFULNESS

Many years ago, a revivalist and minister were conducting a prayer meeting. He asked those who had tithed through the years to give a brief testimony about God's faithfulness in blessing them for their giving.

Seven people came to the front of the meeting to give witness to God's provision.  The first six gave glowing testimonies of blessings received through the years.  Then the last one spoke, Mrs. Felicity Brown. She was an old, frail, gray-haired woman.

She spoke reluctantly, "I have sacrificed and did without; I have skimped and saved pennies for the mission of the Gospel.  I gave it to the offering every week.  I wish I was able to give testimony to the faithfulness of God, but now I am old, I am unable to work at the shirt factory anymore.  I have no means of support. I do not know what I shall do!"

Those who listened to her words were more discouraged than the encouragement they had from the six who had received various blessings for their tithing.

The next day, the minister was having lunch as a guest of a major businessman.  At the dinner table, the businessman said, "Pastor, you will be interested in knowing we are trying to make the teachings of Our Lord apply to the business.  We are beginning a pension system for our employees.  We have been thinking about it for years and have been studying just how to make it work.  The plan is finally in place.  In fact, today, we are issuing our first life pension to a woman who has served our company for twenty-five years, Mrs. Felicity Brown."

Never doubt that God is faithful!

(C) Adron Dozat 2/16/14

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The Teaching Of The Silversmith

This short story illustrates one of the truths of the Christian life of faith and helps us to think about God's purposes in our trials.

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THE LESSON OF THE SILVERSMITH

A man went to visit a silversmith. The silversmith took some dull gray ingots of metal and put them in a crucible. He set the crucible over a hot fire, and he pumped gas and air into the flames and made the fire hotter and hotter. The visitor could feel the heat from a distance across the workroom. The silversmith leaned closer and bent over the crucible looking intently into the hot molten metal.

"What is it you are doing to the metal in the crucible?" asked the visitor.

The smith just waved his hand, so intently was he watching the silver.

"What are you looking for?" The visitor asked.

"I am looking for my face in the silver. When I see my image reflected in it, then I stop. The work is done."

The man leaned over the shoulder of the smith and peered into the crucible. The dull gray lumps of metal had melted into a metallic fluid; it was now pure silver, bright and clean. A moment later it became a mirror showing the face of the man.

God is like the silversmith. He may need to put us in the crucible and heat the flames to test and purify us but He is bent over watching for His image to develop in us.

(C)Adron Dozat

Why you should be careful about little things in life.

This short story illustrates a powerful truth, so clearly stated in the title but colorfully described in the tale below. I hope you enjoy.

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WHY YOU SHOULD BE CAREFUL
ABOUT THE LITTLE THINGS IN LIFE

Many years ago during the times of great hardship in Scotland two Scotchmen left their beloved country and sought their fortunes in the rich farmland of California.

The day before they left their home village in the highlands each considered what he would bring to America to remember their homeland by.  One went into the fields and gathered a thistle since it is the national emblem of Scotland. The other went to the meadows and brought back some honey bees in a jar. Together they traveled to America and made their way to California- each one treasuring their tokens of Scotland.

The thistle was planted in the garden of the one and the honey bees were given a hive on the farm of the other.

Years passed. The thistle plant became another, then another; they grew and multiplied until for miles around the fields became slowly infested with thistles. In frustration the farmers tried to get rid of them but could not. The thistles were a source of resentment that estranged the Scotsman from the community.

During the years the honey bees made one hive, then another and then more, so that with time the fields and woods near the home of the second Scotsman was filled with honey bees and sweet honey!

Neither one had any idea what the effect would be when they brought the little mementos from their homeland.  We must be careful for we do not know the effect the little things will be when allowed to take root in our lives.


(C) Adron Dozat

Kindness Won The Reading

A true story from the great war of an act of kindness that softened the heart of a hardened soldier.

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KINDNESS WON THE READING

THE LESSON OF THE KIND CHAPLAIN

     A chaplain on a battlefield came to a soldier who was badly wounded. The man was lying on the hard cold ground as snowflakes drifted down on his pale face. "Would you like me to read to you something from the Bible?" The chaplain asked.

     "No, thank you, I don't believe the Bible." The soldier whispered. "I would rather have a drink of water. I am so thirsty." The chaplain splashed through icy mud to a farmhouse. The water pump was frozen but he beat it with his fist until the handle swung free and then he pumped water into a jar. The icy water spilled over his hands and his fingers with stinging cold. When he returned to the wounded man the chaplain held his head us so he could sip the water. For the longest time, the man sipped and coughed until the water satisfied his parched thirst.

     Then the soldier said, "Would you put something under my head?" The chaplain took off his overcoat and rolled it up, and gently put it under the soldier's head for a pillow.

     "Sir," whispered the soldier, "I need something over me. I am so very cold." The chaplain took off his coat and spread it over the soldier. The cold was bitter and the chaplain shook without his coat or overcoat.

     "The wounded soldier looked gratefully into the face of the chaplain and said, "Thank you." Then he looked at the chaplain shivering in the cold and he added, "If there is anything in the Bible that makes a man do what you have done for me, you may read it to me."


(C)Adron Dozat

We Must Keep Our Light Burning

This story of the brave children is based on fact and has been told before.  It is a powerful illustration of the importance of doing good.

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WE MUST KEEP OUR LIGHT BURNING

On the coast of a wild northern rocky land stood a tall lighthouse on a rocky island so small one could walk from one end to the other in a few minutes. The lighthouse was vital; it lit the way through the narrow passage of rocky shoals guiding ships to safe passage.

In it lived a light housekeeper, Sean, and his two children, Marie and Francis. Every night all three would climb the tower and the children would watch Sean light the lamp and gasp as the light magnified and reflected in the mirror filling the chamber with golden light and casting the light far out to sea.

"Papa," Marie would ask," Why do we light the lamp?'

"We must light the lamp. It shows the way. Without it the ships will be lost and wreck upon the rocks." 

One day, Sean rowed to the mainland village to get provisions. While he was gone a terrific storm raced over the horizon. The gale was mighty and the seas wilder than ever. Sean fought the wind and the waves yet was unable to row the boat back to the lighthouse.

The time to light the lamp came. Marie said to her little brother, "Papa is late. We must light the lamp, Francis." The two children climbed the long narrow winding stairs to the top of the tower. Marie pulled a chair up to light the lamp inside the large mirrored reflector. She climbed up on the chair but the lamp was too high for her to reach.  "I know. Wait here, Francis." She went down the stairs and a few minutes later came back carrying an oil lamp from the kitchen. "I will hold this up so the ships can see the light." She climbed the chair but was still too short for the reflector to catch the light. Again and again she tried but was not able to reach the mirror with the lamp.

In the little boat, Sean struggled against the sea. The wild black night wrapped around him, he was without bearing and feared that he would miss the lighthouse in the dark and be smashed on the rocks. He strained to see the lights of the lighthouse. "Where is it? Is it to the right or the left," he thought. "No, maybe I have turned around and am rowing to the rocky shore."

Marie felt desperate. On her toes and trying to reach as high as she could she was still far short of the mirror. "Come down, I have an idea," said Francis. Marie came down and Francis climbed on the chair." Now you climb on top of me and stand on my shoulders."  Marie stood on his shoulders and held up the little lamp. The reflector caught the light and magnifying it cast it out to sea. She held the lamp with one hand and when her arm was too tired held it with the other.

"Francis," She said as minutes turned to hours, "This is hard. Are you getting tired? Does it hurt?"

"Yes, it hurts. But we must keep the light shining."

Sean saw the light and now with bearings, he rowed with fury to the lighthouse and his own safety.

Out at sea a ship carrying over a thousand troops back from the wars saw the light and was guided safely through the rocky shoals.

We never know who we are guiding to safety- we must keep the light up.

You are the light of the world. A city on a hilltop cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:14
(C)Adron Dozat

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Thank you for visiting my blog.  I hope my stories are an encouragement and helpful.  To find more search the list of favorites in the left sidebar.  Please come back again. 

Adron 

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He Wanted Her Savior Too

This is the true story of how a woman whose unbelieving husband was brought to faith by the quiet testimony of her faithful life

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HE WANTED HER SAVIOR TOO

Martha was a devoted Christian but her husband, Jim, considered all religion in general and Jesus in particular to be for the weak and ignorant. Jim would drive her to church each week where he would park and get out to open her door like a gentleman. Jim would stand and watch to make sure she met her friends and got up the steps to the church entrance safely, then he would leave and drive back home.

Martha prayed daily for her Jim to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus but the years passed and Jim seemed to become ever more hardened to the gospel.

One Sunday morning, the minister preached a passionate message proclaiming the gospel of salvation through faith in the work of Jesus on the cross. As so often Martha sat there thinking with a sigh, "If only My Jim could hear this message and understand the love of Jesus for him!" The minister finished his sermon with an invitation for any who wanted to trust Jesus to come forward and kneel at the altar and confess Jesus as savior and Lord.

All heads were bowed in silent prayer while moments passed as no one approached the altar until the soft sound of a man's familiar footsteps gave Martha a start; she looked up and saw her husband at the front of the church. She watched as he confessed his need for the Savior and gave his heart to the Lord.

Afterward, Jim said, "Martha, I've been watching you for a long time. Your life is always clean and beautiful. You are always kind, forgiving and gentle. I knew that you had something I didn't have. This morning, after dropping you off out front I listened to the music and the singing. The words of the song compelled me to come in. I sat in the back of the church and when the minister asked if there was any who wanted to give their hearts to Jesus I decided that I wanted your Savior too."


(C)Adron Dozat

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The Sargent and the Boots That Turned.

This is the story of how one person came to faith and continued to live his faith in the face of adversary and how it had a powerful effect on others.

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THE SARGENT AND THE BOOTS THAT TURNED

There was once a Sargent in the Scottish Guards who was a fearsome man in or out of uniform. He was taller and stronger than most men. He was known as the "Mallet" because his fists were so large. When Sargent McGregor was off duty he would dare anyone to go one round with him in a bout of fist-to-cuffs. The wager was a tempting one for many but none could last a single round with the Mallet. He could take the best blows they could give but after a half a minute he would stop playing and crash a powerful punch upon his opponent and send him flying, thus winning the bet. As much as the men in his company feared him they respected his leadership blindly. Sgt. McGregor was a seasoned soldier who fought in the king's army in many campaigns. He was fearless in battle.  Sgt. McGregor was also a bully who used threats, taunts, ridicule, and harsh punishments to keep his command in order.

Randy was a private in his command. Randy is the nickname for one who has loose values and morals; and Randy was a lover of fun, gambling, strong drink, and many other wicked things.  Randy was a good soldier who obeyed orders well enough and fought in combat with distinction worthy of the elite Highland Unit.

Returning from war in the east the Highlander's ship stopped at the island of Malta; the island where Paul the Apostle did many wonders. The highlanders had left to explore and amuse themselves on the island. Randy found himself separated from his companions and wandered about alone.

He came to a statue of St Paul. Without understanding why Randy was drawn to it. He could not help but stand for some time looking at the statue of St Paul. The statue seemed to trouble him but he was not able to leave.

"The Apostle did many miracles on this island." A voice behind him said. Randy turned and saw an old man in plain black clothes.

"The face on this statue looks so peaceful, yet full of authority and confidence," Randy commented.

"Paul was all those things- after he met Jesus."  The old man said. "Have you met Jesus?"

"How can I?" Smirked Randy, "Jesus died long ago."

"You can meet Jesus today and know him as Lord and Savior. He loves you and died for your sins."

Randy looked at the old man and considered these words. The old man had the same spirit of peace and confidence. "Tell me more."

That day Randy learned the Gospel of Jesus and he received Jesus into his life as Lord and Savior. He became a new creation in Christ and resolved to live for Jesus with the same abandon and passion that earned him the nickname of Randy.

His daily prayers and diligence to read the Bible was quickly observed. He gave up strong drink, late-night carousing, his language was without cussing and became gracious.

McGregor despised Randy for all of this. He saw religion as weak and hypocritical. He bullied Randy harshly with many jeers and insults and gave the private dirty hard task to perform. The Sargent criticized every effort Randy made to live a righteous life.

In spite of all the hardships, Randy was faithful to the Lord who he loved. He read the Bible daily and sought to win others for Christ. He was persistent in prayer. His reputation for Godly living became known throughout the entire regiment.

It became his custom to read the Bible in the morning at breakfast. A few guardsmen would sit with Randy and listen to his reading of a few verses. The Sargent would hover nearby for the purpose of mocking God's Word.

One morning the regiment was camped in tents in some distant campaign, and the soldiers were around the campfires when Randy read the words of Jesus' sermon. "But I say unto you, that ye resist not evil: But whosoever shall smite the on the right cheek turn the other to him also." * The Sargent rushed out of his tent and pounced upon the words of Jesus, criticizing the teaching of Jesus with mocking and cursing. Randy quietly tried to defend the Lord's words but McGregor refused to listen.

It was a day of a long march through muddy marshes. The cold damp overcast day put the entire regiment in a bad mood; McGregor was more of a bully than ever, and his temper was growing around the campfire that night.

As his last duty of the day the Private knelt in his tent to pray, giving thanks and worship to the Lord; and beseeching God's blessing on the King, country, regiment, and brothers in Christ. His words were soft-spoken but audible to those passing by the tent.

McGregor hearing the muttered prayers became enraged. He was sitting on a stool next to the fire and had taken off his muddied boots to relieve his swollen sore feet. Grabbing one he threw it with all his might into the Private's tent hitting Randy full on the right side of his face knocking him over. The laughter around the campfire was like a roar. The Sargent teased, "I wager he'll not turn that cheek for a time."

Randy quietly picked himself up and resumed his prayers kneeling the other way, facing his other cheek to McGregor, who shouted. "I've never refused a challenge in my life." He snatched up his other muddied boot and threw it hitting the Private squarely on the side of the face knocking him over again. The private picked himself up again and knelt as before to pray for the regiment.

Many of the men around the campfire were humiliated by the scene of Randy faithfully enduring the Sargent's abuse. In shame and silence, they turned away and sought their own tents. McGregor sensing he was losing his audience raised his voice louder and added more insults against the private and his Lord.  He pulled out a flask of rum and drank until he stumbled into his tent for the night.

The sun rose the next morning shining its yellow light on the tents of the camp as the men were making breakfast fires to cook on and to warm themselves. McGregor opened the flap of his tent to preview the weather and mood of the Guardsmen. His eyes rested upon two shiny beautiful boots before his tent. The leather shown with polish and the brass fittings were buffed until they gave off a golden light. They were his own boots that he had thrown at the faithful Christian Private. The boots were now cleaned of all grime and mud; they were restored to a condition better than McGregor had seen since they were new.

"Who cleaned my boots?" The Sargent muttered half suspecting the answer. A passing Guardsman carrying a bucket of water supposing the question was addressed to him replied, "Private Randy, Sir. He spent most of the night at the task."

The words and sight of the cleaned boots did what battles and warfare could not do. McGregor's resistance broke and his heart melted by an act of love and forgiveness. The many words of the Gospel which Randy faithfully proclaimed flooded up in his soul. Tears rolled down his scarred cheeks. He turned back into the tent, knelt next to the cot, and prayed, confessing his sins and receiving the love of his Lord who he now trusted as Savior.

* Matthew 5:39

(C)Adron Dozat

The Tale Of The Great Inheirtance

THE TALE OF THE GREAT INHERITANCE

Charley lived in the old days and worked very hard at a city bank as a lowly clerk who sat in the back room adding up the figures and sums of the balance sheets and making sure everything was right in the accounting books.  He rode the trolley train to work before dawn each morning to arrive early and often worked late. On the trolley, he would speak to people about their need to use a good bank like the one he worked at, which brought so many new customers that he was given a new job as a teller of new accounts. He worked hard and brought in many more new customers, giving them so much help that he was promoted to assistant to the manager. After several years Charlie was the president of the bank which grew to a large and famous institution.

If asked the secret of his success Charley would open the drawer of his desk and pull out a worn and well-read Bible. Showing many pages of underlined verses and notes written in the margins, he would say, "The Bible is my guide. It has pointed me to Jesus as my Savior.  All I ever do is to serve the God it proclaims. If I follow the principles of the Bible I am assured of blessing."

Charley was blessed, he had a wonderful wife named Mary, and had a brilliant son named Christopher. He had a fine house and the comforts brought through the fruit of hard work.

It was not Charley's fault that the bank collapsed, in the crisis many banks did. Indeed, Charley was outspoken about the possibility of the ruin of the banks and sought to change the system for the better but his was one lone voice unheard in the revels of the time.

Charlie had to move into a smaller home but he never suffered want and was never bitter; instead, he was always thankful to God for blessings and full of praise to Jesus his Savior.

When Charlie died his funeral was well attended, his widow and son sat in black and wept loving tears of grief, as did all who knew Charlie.  As a good husband, he made sure Mary, his widow, had everything she needed. Christopher listened as the long-faced  lawyer read, "'And to my son Christopher I leave my Bible and everything it contains. May he find everything he needs between its pages.' I am sorry Chris, I know you hoped to inherit your father's fortune but as you know he was wiped out in the banking crash. There is nothing but this Bible." The lawyer put the old Bible in Christopher's hand.

"I thought as much." Mused Christopher. "I often saw him reading this Bible. It was like he became the Bible and the Bible became him."

Remembering how his father loved the Bible Christopher was sure he would keep this heirloom as a treasured tribute of his father's faith. He put it on the mantel above the fireplace in the small house he and his mother lived in. He hoped the Bible would be a little something of his father to give him strength.

Times were hard then and work was tough to find. Even though Christopher was educated and intelligent he was only able to get common work as a clerk or assistant in an office. Often he would look at his father's Bible on the mantle and think of how hard his father worked and he himself resolved to do the right things.

Christopher married Phoebe and had children of his own. He worked hard to provide, but his young wife had to take in mending and do other people's laundry; even still they barely got by and hardly ever had enough. Through the years his father's Bible sat on the mantle revered but unopened, its pages unread, the truths not proclaimed, and its comfort withheld.

Christopher watched his children grow and get lives of their own. He always felt regret that he was not able to give them the good things his father gave him even though he worked hard. His wife grew vegetables in the yard and often her patience brought a harvest that put dinner on the table. Sometimes when he came home after working late to sit down to a cold dinner Christopher would look at the Bible on the mantle; he would remember his father' riches and wished that some of the wealth had survived the finical ruin of the past. It was not anger or bitterness but a reflection that if his father had hidden something away he would have more for his little family and wife he loved.

The Bible was enshrined on the mantle and was dusted respectfully over the years. That dust of time seemed to settle on Christopher and Phoebe. Their children said, "This house is too much for you now that you are so old, sell it and move to a little apartment near us." So it was that Christopher whose father was once one of the richest men in the state was being packed up by strangers and moved to a small rental apartment.

The moving men packed up everything; furniture, dishes, books, all that Christopher and Phoebe owned. The chief moving man, a large muscled man with a thick mustache, walked through the empty rooms to make sure everything was taken.  "What's this? Does this go too?" He asked, lifting the Bible off of the mantle. Almost forgotten, it was the last thing to be packed up.

Christopher stood in the bright sunlight at the door about to leave the old house. "Oh yes, we should take that, it is my father's old Bible. Be careful of it, it hasn't been opened in years."

"Yes, Sir, I know it is a Bible, but what are these papers inside? They look important."

With arthritic steps, Christopher shuffled to the fireplace and looked at what the mover was holding.  In one hand the opened Bible showed large pages. In the man's other hand was a document folded neatly. Christopher took it and shifting his glasses so he could read it, exclaimed with a shout, "What is this?" Old and so nearly blind he could hardly read the words of the document in his hand, a certificate of stock-holdings in a major business. "This is worth a fortune."

"There is more." Said the moving man as he flipped through the pages of the Bible lifting out many folded papers that had "Stock," "Certification of deposit," "Municipal Bond," or "Investment Fund Account," written in flowing script across the tops.

"What is it, Chris?" Phoebe's voice wavered as she put her wrinkled hand on his shoulder.

"My father's will said, 'And to my Son Christopher I leave my Bible and all it contains. May he find all he needs between its pages.' Look in between the pages were certificates, stocks, and bonds. Phoebe, we have found Father's millions."

Later the sun was setting as Christopher and Phoebe sat in the taxi following the moving van to their apartment. They were in silent shock overwhelmed by the sudden discovery of wealth. The cab driver turned to say, "We should be there in a few minutes." He saw the Bible that Christopher was holding on his lap. "I admire your devotion to the Bible, sir. I find everything I need in it. You know I read a chapter every day."

Christopher whispered, "I wish I did."


Our Father in heaven has hidden spiritual treasure in the pages of the Bible. It has wealth for this life and the next, but they can only be mined by those who diligently and daily search its pages for its wonders.

___________________________ 

Thank you for visiting my blog.  I hope my stories are an encouragement and helpful.  

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Please come back again. 

Adron 

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(C)Adron Dozat

The Parable Of The Blacksmith And The Princess

The parable of the Blacksmith and the Princess

In the simple days of kings and castles, there was a town blacksmith named Robert.  Robert was a hardworking man who worked his forge early in the morning until late at night. Hard work made Robert strong with powerful arms and back. Because of his strength folk respected Robert but also he had served in the king's army and was a champion at arms. He was a good and honest man who every morning said his prayers asking God to guide his day, and every night to thank God for his blessings. Robert's closest companion was the humble monk known only as Brother Monk.  Robert was always in the crowd when  Brother Monk read the scriptures and taught the town folk each morning in the town square.

The king had no son, only a daughter who was beautiful, wise, and gracious in all things.  This princess was the king's joy, but only a son could inherit the throne.  The king worried that if he should die without an heir the kingdom would be destroyed by civil war.  Even a son-in-law married to the princess would bring safety to the kingdom; so the king sent word to all the lands that Princess Danielle was of age and that suitors would be welcome to visit the castle.

BLESSED ARE THE MEEK
The birds sang in the branches over the heads of the town folk as Brother Monk spoke. "Our Lord said, 'Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth 1.' By these words, Jesus teaches us to be humble servants. Not to force our own way. Meekness does not mean giving into evil, for when we have a just cause we must stand against evil, but humbly fearing God."

That day the first suitor for Princess Danielle's hand arrived in town, a dark-haired prince from the south with black eyes and a black horse. He had ridden his horse hard and the bit in the bridle broke. Seeing the blacksmith shop he entered.

The Blacksmith

"You there, blacksmith," he ordered. "Stop what you are doing and fix this bridle right now."

Robert was bent over the anvil working on a plow for an old farm wife. He looked over his shoulder and saw the prince in fine clothes and a bright sword hanging from his belt. "I am busy with the plow right now if you can leave it I will fix it and bring it to you later."

"No, blacksmith, I am Prince Alexander. You stop what you are doing right now and fix my bridle."

Robert turned around and stood up straight. He was very tall and looked down at the prince. "I am sorry, the farm wife was first, you must wait."

The prince put his hand on his sword and spread his feet ready to fight. People came to watch and soon in moments, a crowd gathered at the door. People were saying, "Robert is a master at arms he will teach the proud prince a thing or two." and "That little prince is nothing to the blacksmith, he will thrash the prince and his knights too."

The prince drew his sword before anyone saw what had happened it was in the hand of Robert who was holding the sword up to the light looking at it. The prince stepped back mouth opened wide and eyes opened wider.

"I will put a fresh edge on this for you too," Robert said. "After I finish the farm wife's plow."

The prince seeing he was unarmed and at the mercy of the blacksmith took another stumbling step back fearful for his life. Robert returned to his work on the plow. An hour later he finished the plow and fixed the horses bridle.

"I suppose you are going to charge me extra since you see I am wealthy." The prince grumbled.

"No. Five coppers, same as for anybody."

The story of the events spread through the town and when it reached the ears of the king he said, "We can learn a thing from that blacksmith."

BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS
The next day the monk stood under the trees in the town square and taught the people, "Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers,2. Remember Jesus came to make peace, we should follow in his footsteps whenever possible."

That day another prince came to present himself to the princess. He was called the red prince since his armor was red. He liked to drink a lot of wine and was augmentative. That night the red prince and the black prince both drank too much and quarreled. The fight was loud and turned violent and in the fight, they broke furniture and the door to the feasting chamber.

The king's soldiers broke up the fight and the king paced back and forth in front of the princes shaking his finger at them giving a fatherly lecture condemning their actions.

The blacksmith was called to repair the door.

The knights and servants of both princes were loyal to their own Lords and continued the argument in the courtyard. Like two small armies they lined up about to charge each other with swords drawn and lances lowered. The king heard the yelling from the feast-hall and looking out he saw the two forces about to battle inside the castle walls. The blacksmith entered the courtyard carrying his anvil and tools.  Robert set down this anvil and began to speak to individuals and groups of the men. The king could not hear what he was saying but watched in amazement as the swords were put away and spears set at rest. After a few minutes, the opposing knights were shaking hands and slapping each other on the back. The courtyard became a scene of peace fellowship and friendship.

The king turned to the two princes and said, "You two like to make war, but there is one who makes peace. We could learn a few things from the blacksmith."

BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO MOURN
The next day Brother Monk stood under the trees teaching the people and said. "Jesus taught, 'Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.' Jesus gave us an example when He wept at the grave of Lazarus. He was even called a man of sorrows."

Another group of princes with their knights were riding into the town they were halted by a procession of weeping women and men carrying a casket to the cemetery to bury a dead townsman.

"Move aside you peasants." a prince ordered. "Get out of our way you scum." one said. Another yelled, "Who do you think you are! Can't you see we are better than you? We are royalty, we are princes."

A hand reached up and pulled the reins of the lead horse and then the reins of the one next to it. The blacksmith held the horses back and stopped all the princes from moving forward. Tears ran down Robert's soot-stained face and dripped off of his beard. The princes did not dare to push ahead since the blacksmith still held his huge blacksmith hammer in his other hand. The funeral procession passed in front of the princes who scowled at the blacksmith.

The queen and Princess Danielle rode up in her soft royal carriage. "Blacksmith," The queen said. "Why the tears? Was it your son who had who died?"

"No your majesty, I have not a son."

"Was it a brother or uncle or some other kinsman who died and for whom you mourn with such big tears?"

"No, your majesty. I have no family the funeral was only someone I knew slightly?"

"If you knew the dead one only slightly then why do you mourn so?"

"I mourn with those who mourn for their sorrow is great. Their sorrow is my sorrow."

The queen turned to the princes. "You can learn something from this man."

BLESSED ARE THE PURE IN HEART

Brother Monk

The next day Brother Monk stood under the trees teaching the people. "Jesus said, 'Blessed are the pure in heart.' Jesus had no sin and we should turn our hearts away from sin at every opportunity and not let sin corrupt our hearts."

Another prince arrived in the town that day to meet Princess Danielle. With him came servants. One servant stopped at the blacksmith shop. She was a beautiful lady of the court and married to the prince's uncle The Duke. One look at the strong handsome blacksmith convinced her she wanted to run away with him for a season of adventure. "Blacksmith." She said. "Is it true you disarmed the black prince?"

"I would not want to talk about it. Do you need the services of a blacksmith, my lady?"

"Oh yes, but not in a customary way." She responded sliding up to the blacksmith and rubbing his muscled arm with her hand. "And did you stop a pitched fight between the knights in the castle courtyard?"

"That is between the knights and me. Do you need some work done?"

"Did you stop the princes in the road single-handedly so the funeral could pass by?"

"I was only respecting the grief of those who mourn. What do you want?"

"Are you so dull, Robert? Come with me and escape this provincial town. We will go to the great cities. I have wealth."

"No, I am not dull. I am smart enough to see what you want is a pleasure for a season. And the wages of this pleasure is death."

"If you mean my husband the Duke- he is a dullard, a drunken fool. You need not fear him."

"I fear no man, Duchess. I fear God. Now speak no more to me. Go to the Duke, I have work to do."

A small town has no secrets and what happened was told; the next day the lady left the town in disgrace. In the feast hall, the king heard that she was immodest with the blacksmith who by the fear of God refused to run away with her. "You know my Lords, we could all learn something from the blacksmith." the king said.

BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO HUNGER AFTER RIGHTEOUSNESS
The next morning the monk stood under the trees in the town square and taught the people. "Jesus said, 'Blessed are those who hunger and thrust after righteousness,'. Our Lord spent forty days in the wilderness and spent many a night in prayer. We should follow his example of devotion."

That morning the princes sat in carriages waiting to ride to the country manor for a banquet. The queen sat in the softest carriage; she had a bad back and could only ride in this carriage with soft springs. As the carriage passed the castle gate one of the springs broke.

"Call for the blacksmith." The king ordered.

A youth ran to the town and came back a few minutes later. "The blacksmith will not come, your Majesty."

"Tell the blacksmith that I will pay him a gold coin if he comes right now."

The youth ran off to the town but came back a few minutes later. "The blacksmith will not come."

"Tell the blacksmith I will give him Ten gold coins if he comes now."

The youth ran off and came back a few minutes later still no blacksmith. "The blacksmith will not come."

"Tell the blacksmith I will give him one hundred gold coins if he comes right now." The youth left and came back a few minutes later. "The blacksmith says he will come when he finishes."

After a long while, the blacksmith came to the castle carrying his anvil.

The king was upset. "Why did you not come when I called you at first? What could have been more important than the king? Do you not know you could have received one hundred coins if you came when summoned?"

"I was in my morning prayers, giving worship to God my Lord and Maker. Serving God is a higher duty than serving a king. I do not consider the hundred gold coins a loss since I have a heavenly reward far greater."

The king turned to the princes, "We could learn something from the blacksmith."

In a short time, the carriage was fixed.

PRINCESS DANIELLE CHOOSES
The next day all the princes stood in the throne room in their finest most royal clothing. The king, queen and princess sat on thrones. One by one each took a turn walking up to the king, they bowed to the king, kissed the hand of the queen and went down on one knee to offer his sword to the princess Danielle. Everyone watched to see if she would take his sword, for it was the customer that when the Princess took the sword it would show that he was the one. As each one knelt she smiled and wished them a good journey to their own lands. Princess Danielle did not choose any prince.

The king was frustrated. "Princess, you must choose and you must choose today."

The princess said. "Send for the blacksmith."

Because the blacksmith sought to be the kind of man that Jesus wanted him to be he became the kind of man that the kingdom wanted.

1. Matthew 5:5. 2, Matthew 5:9. 3,Matthew 5:4.  4, Matthew 5:8. 5, Matthew 5:6.

(c) Adron Dozat

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The Educated Young Man And The Shoes.

The Educated Man
And The Shoes

I was teaching a lesson on pride to a class of high school kids and found this story to help them understand the Christian motivation for humility.
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Back when the emperor ruled in China there was a young man who lived in a city. His family was wealthy and had many servants so the young man never had to dirty his hands with common work. Because he came from a wealthy family he was able to receive a fine education. He excelled in all his studies and was considered one of the brightest students at the university. He was very cultured and was careful to observe all the customs of upper society. This man became a Christian and as a follower of Jesus he wanted to serve his Lord, so he joined a mission hospital that was run by a missionary and there the young man trained to become a nurse.

He was given many interesting opportunities to help people and being educated he was able to understand much of the medicine and science. He was excited to be able to serve Jesus by serving people whom Jesus loved. He was respected by patients and staff.

I have never cleaned shoes it is below me

One day the missionary doctor brought to the young man some muddy filth covered shoes and asked him to clean them.

"What?" decried the young man. "No, not me I have been educated. I understand science and medicine. I am from the upper class we do not clean shoes, have someone else do this."

"Everyone else is busy elsewhere. I need you to clean these shoes."

"I have never cleaned shoes. It is below me I will not do this."

The missionary brought out his worn Bible, and read from the Gospel of John. "And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him; Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God; He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a;basin and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. Then cometh he to Simon Peter and Peter saith unto him, Lord dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou salt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not thou has no part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean everywhit: and ye are clean but not all. For he knew who should betray him; Therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? You call me Master and Lord and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you and example, that ye should do as I have done to you.*"  Then the missionary left the room without saying a word leaving the open Bible on the table.

He washed the disciples feet

Later that day the cleaned shoes were brought to the missionary by a now very humble young man. He set the clean shiny shoes down on the table and said, "If Jesus can wash the disciples feet then I can clean shoes."  The young educated man became known as the most willing worker in the hospital who was happy to scrub floors, clean wounds, take out trash, clean dishes, and do whatever lowly task offered, because so doing he was following his Savior.

*John 13:2-16 JKV

(C)Adron Dozat

The Tale of the Nobleman And The Wooden Chest

The Tale Of The Nobleman
And The Wooden Chest

This is a story about a man who had a secret that empowered him to a place of status and power.

* * * * *

THE TALE OF THE NOBLEMAN AND THE WOODEN CHEST

A long time ago a king had a very good nobleman who was well respected and admired by all who knew him. This nobleman was not the kind who sat in his estate house and indulged in the good life, he was a hard and sacrificial worker. He always fulfilled his duties above the expectations of the king. He eventually became one of the king's trusted advisers and was part of all the great events of the kingdom. This nobleman became first among the counselors.

The Nobleman's Chest

There was one odd and particular practice of this nobleman that caused many to wonder and talk.  He had an old wooden chest that he took everywhere.  At night he would bring it into the bedchamber and set it respectfully at the foot of the bed. During the day he would bring the chest into the counsel room and set it next to his bench while he debated and discussed the affairs of state. On travels, as ambassador, he would bring it along and place it on the seat next to him in the carriage. Those who didn't know better assumed it to contain state documents or important papers of the office of First Counselor. Because of his high position and authority, none dared to ask him. The box was watched over by guards if he left it momentarily, valets would give it respect and handle it with the greatest care. The wooden box became synonymous with the nobleman.

As the years of his service came to an honorable end and the nobleman prepared to retire from public service a banquet was held by the king in his honor. The banquet hall was overflowing with the best of the kingdom, and ambassadors from all the surrounding kingdoms came to honor the nobleman who worked so tirelessly for the good of his king and his people.  Speeches were given about the good works the nobleman performed and the reforms he brought about.

The moment came when the nobleman stood before the many guests to make his fairwell when someone in the crowd shouted out. "What is in that box you have carried all these years?"

The nobleman as a country lad

"That is my secret." The nobleman replied.  "Many years ago when I was a country lad a wealthy young man rode his horse through our village. It was there that the horse threw a shoe. I offered to fetch the blacksmith for the man. 'Yes, My Good lad.' the wealthy man replied, 'And where might I rest while my horse is shod?' 'Our village is a poor one without hostel or inn, but you are welcome to share my lunch and sit in the shade of the tree while I fetch the blacksmith,' I told him. So I gave the man my lunch and sought the blacksmith. It was a few minutes later that I returned carrying the blacksmith's bag while he brought the cart. I held the bridle of the horse and helped the blacksmith, then got water and fodder for the horse.  The rich man said. 'You work with a full heart, young man, come be my servant and I will pay you worthy wages.' Yes, sir, I was overjoyed at such good fortune to be in the employ of such as him. 'Go fetch your things and ride behind me,'  he said, but I told him I had nothing but the clothes I wore. 'We shall fix that straight away.' he replied. So I rode behind my new master. Imagine my surprise when we rode to the castle. 'Tell me, sir, what is your name?' I asked him. 'I am the prince,' he answered, 'the king's first son and heir to the throne.'"

"In the castle I was given a small store room to make as my chambers but it was full of forgotten relics. As I cleaned it out the washer woman brought me a beautiful change of clothes. 'Let me take those and burn them.' she said pointing to the rags I was wearing. 'No, I will keep them and put them in this old box to remind me that I am not better than any other; this way I will mortify my pride and stay humble, because if I do not stay humble I will not be any service to my new master.' My master became king and as the years of service passed I went from lowly servant to First Counselor because I always remembered I am no better than anyone else."

The noble man opened the box before the fine people of the banquet and lifted out the rags he once wore as a peasant boy. As he sat down the entire audience stood up to honor him.


(C)Adron Dozat

James 2:1-12 The True Measure And The Angel

The True Measure
 And The Angel

Here is a story I used in my Sunday School Class. We were covering James 2:1-4, this is a modern day retelling of the verses. I hope the extra details capture attention and makes the point more personal.

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THE TRUE MEASURE AND THE ANGEL

There was a church in a city that was famous for it's good works. It  supported many charities, had started hospitals and raised money for orphanages.  The people of this Church met in a beautiful building with a rich history and strong heritage.

The Lord called the angels to join in his counsel and said. "It is in my heart to bless the members of this congregation.  How shall I bless them? What shall be the measure?"

An angel suggested. "Have one of us go down in the human form of a common laborer, as you were yourself during your earthly sojourn, and the way this church blesses the lowly common laborer will be the measure of blessing you should give unto them."

"You may go in human form wearing the appearance of a common laborer."

The angel walked through the huge wooden carved double doors of the church. His face was suntanned his hair greasy, graying, and uncut, his hands calloused and dark under the fingernails. His shoes were worker's boots, and his clothes were many seasons out of style, soiled and needed mending.

The greeter nodded and held out a Sunday bulletin to the angel as he entered, but except for a nod did not give any greeting.

The lobby was crowded with people in fine suits and clean dresses. The angel waited alone, standing in the lobby; but no one asked his name or introduced themselves or greeted him.

The angel found a space on a pew to listen to the worship. Though the church was full no one sat next to him. No one reached over from the pew behind or in front to say, "Hello."

The orchestra played several hymns beautifully and the choir sang wonderfully. The sermon was passionate and doctrinally correct.

After the service the congregation gathered in the fellowship hall where cookies and coffee were offered as a time to socialize.  The angle milled around the crowd. He walked up to a group of business men and stood listening to their conversation about an upcoming election. No one spoke to him or shook his hand. He stood by the table of cookies and the coffee urn; although dozens of people walked up to the table to get cookies and coffee no one shook his hand, introduced themselves or befriended him.

The angel slowly walked to the exit. Some youth were laughing and enjoying themselves. As he walked past no one said, "Good by."

The angel returned to heaven and gave a sad report to the other angels and the Lord.

"We shall both go next time." The Lord said.  "You may wear a youthful look and fine clothes and I shall wear coveralls and we shall give a second chance to this congregation to prove their measure.

The angel wearing the fine suit barely got through the door before he was greeted warmly.  At the door several beautiful women introduced themselves.  Deacons and ushers came up with invitations to sit with them.

Behind the angel the Lord in the guise an old man in coveralls and a scraggly beard shuffled trough the doors receiving a bulletin and a nod from the greeters. The Lord sat on a pew by the front of the congregation.

"Pardon me sir," said  an usher. "But this seat is reserved for the Trustees."

Without a word the Lord in disguise rose from his seat. "Perhaps there is a seat by the door." The usher offered waiving his hand to indicate the back of the church. The Lord sat by the drafty door.

The angel in the fine suit was given a seat at the front of the church, in one of the newer padded pews. Afterward the cookies and coffee was served in the fellowship hall again as before. The angel had no end of conversation and invitations for lunch. A serving hostess brought him the best cookies and the freshest coffee while he laughed with the men.

The Lord stood by the cookie table, in coveralls. No cookies were offered to him by a hostess, no one introduced themselves to him and no one shook his hand in greeting. As he left there was a crowd of youth at the door, he heard them joke about the old man in coveralls who just walked by.

As the Lord and the angel entered heaven the Lord said. "Have we found the measure by which we will bless this church congregation?"

"Far be it from me to criticize any whom you love, but it seems to me their actions have spoken. They do not need any more blessing, indeed in my judgment they should have less; for they are so blessed in the world's effects that they have forgotten the command to love."

___________

"My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism, Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but you say to the poor man, "You stand there," or "Sit on the floor by my feet," have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?  James 2:1-4.

(C)Adron Dozat

The Prince Who Forgot What He Was - A parable for 1 John 3:1

This parable is one I wrote for a lesson for my Sunday Morning Class. I hope you are inspired by it. I had to give this one a happy ending as I hope all of us realize our blessings in God.

***

There was once a wise and good king whose heart was devoted to the people. His policies enabled full crop harvest, markets to flourish, industry to abound, and trade to grow. Because of the king's wisdom and vision roads, bridges, hospitals and schools were established. From lowest to highest all subjects of this noble king lived healthy and happy lives during a peaceful and golden age.
       As the King grew older, people worried what would happen when he died, "Who will rule then," they asked, "and would they continue his good works?" So, the king announced that when he turned 60 he would name his successor. He had many choices, his son, Prince Marcus Titus, or his nephew, Duke Frederick. There was another who sought the power of kingship, the king's half brother Prince Lester, an evil and cruel man who was known as the Black Earl.
      However, the youthful Prince Marcus, was the favored choice. Like his father his heart was for the good of the people. He wanted to build hospitals, orphanages, schools, and to make people’s lives even better. His ideas would make the country more prosperous and the people more wealthy than ever.      Duke Frederick was a bitter man. Vain and self seeking, he felt slighted by the circumstances of life and wanted the place of ruler. He was unpopular, except for those who spent their time in drinking houses and adventuring over the countryside.
      The king's birthday came and he announced Prince Marcus would succeed as king. All people in the land rejoiced- all except Duke Frederick. Slinking away to one of the drinking houses he and his foul friends drank themselves into a bad mood
      “I wish I could poison that uppity, smart, pup of a prince!”Duke Frederick complained to his table of cronies
      “No, that won’t do." His friends cautioned, "Prince Marcus is healthy, poison will be found out. It will be the gallows for us all.”
      "I know who might help you." Suggested one of the surly drunk men at the table. "The crazy old hermit who lives in the hills. He is always brewing up some poison or another. Maybe he has a drug that will do the trick. Something to only kind-of kill the prince."
      "Excellent idea!" Said the Duke, "I will see this mad hermit straight away."       That night Duke Frederick rode into the dark thickly forested hills and found the Mad Hermit’s hut. The mad hermit was an old man with a white beard who wore animal skin robes.       “I want to ruin the prince. I want people to hate him,” sneered the Duke.
      “I have just the thing,” the hermit said. “It is an amnesia poison- it will push back his memories.”       “So the prince will forget everything? Will he be an ignorant fool?”
      “No; it is very selective, causing one to remember some things and forget others. He will remember he is Prince Marcus but will forget what a prince is, and how to be a prince. He will remember his name and that he will be king, but he will forget what it means. He will not act with the prince’s authority or confidence. When he stops behaving like a prince the people will despise him.”       “Great, but will it wear off?”
      “No, but it may be undone. You must remove all reminders that he is a prince, such as his royal robes, royal seat next to the king’s throne, crown, signet ring, royal sword. Any symbol of what he is must be taken away; for just touching anything that represents his true identity will undo my drugs effect."
      The next morning Duke Frederick saw an opportunity to drug the prince. Each dawn Prince Marcus would practice with the soldiers in the parade field before breakfast, and the soldiers loved him for it.After an hour of sword, lance, archery and combat drills, the prince would take breakfast with these men. While Prince Marcus was exercising at arms of war Duke Frederick stole into his rooms and took anything that was royal. He replaced the royal robes with common folk's clothing, the royal sword with a walking stick, the crown with a felt hat. Duke Frederick stole into the hall of judgment and replaced the prince's throne with a milkmaid's stool.
      Finally, the Duke went to the kitchens and found the soldier's breakfast. Taking the serving cart he wheeled the breakfast to the men and the prince. With a sly hand he slipped the drug into the prince's food.
      “Cousin, are you serving us breakfast?” Prince Marcus exclaimed when he saw the Duke putting the plate of porridge, cheese, ham and eggs before him.
      “If my Lord can honor the guard with sword practice can I not honor my prince and his companions as a servant?”
      “Well said Duke." The prince replied. "Those who wish to lead well must also serve well.”       The prince ate his poisoned meal, and was affected by it immediately. Joking in a rude common way with the men, he made thoughtless remarks like, “Sergeant, If I had a mustache like yours I would shave it off right away and my lip too." The men were offended. The prince stood up and without a salute left the puzzled men.
      His rooms seemed different but with his mind fuzzy by the drug he didn't know why. He put on the rags, hat and strapped on the sword belt. In the sheath was a walking stick. “What should I do with this thing? Maybe I should take a walk. After all it is a walking stick.” Near the door now sat common workers tools, a pheasant's bag and a fishing pole, the drugged prince took them and went out.
      Dressed in the common clothes he left the castle ignoring the guards who saluted him. These guards, too, were hurt at this and offended. On the streets people cheerfully waved at him but he sauntering on not waving back. People wondered at this changed behavior and appearance. He spent the day fishing at the river, catching a few small fish then wandered through the city, to find a fish market, and sold them.
      "Do you know the way back to my home?" He asked the fish monger.
      "Why your highness, take the road to the top of the hill, your castle is there."
      At the castle he wandered around and finally went to bed, but with a mind affected by the poison, he slept in the stables with the horses. "How I wish I had a real room and a real bed instead of straw in a stable."
      The next morning a servant shook him awake. "Prince Titus, the king needs you in the hall of judgment." Following the servant to the hall he stood lost and confused in the crowd until someone told him to sit next to the king. A servant went to the alcove to bring the throne but found the milk maid's stool. So, the prince sat next to the king on the milk maids stool.
      "Where is the prince's throne?" Everybody asked. "Has he become a clown- or a fool? Is it some political statement that he sits on the milk stool? Has he joined the anarchists?"
     Prince Marcus sat looking around unsure of himself and feeling wrong like he didn't belong. Next to him was his father, the king, but he didn't think of him as either father or king, just someone sitting next to him.
     The great hall doors opened and in strode three warriors in black armor, ambassadors from the king's brother, Lester, The black Earl. "Your brother, the Earl, request you send right away grain, beef, and gold to pay for his service and his troops for guarding the western frontier.
     The king turned to Duke Frederick. "Nephew how do you counsel we should answer the ambassadors from my brother?"
     Duke Frederick smiled inside, seeing his opportunity to ruin the prince. "Your majesty, what counsel has Prince Marcus? Is he not among the captains of your guard? It is time he proved his worth in such matters."
     Almost blind from age the King did not see the prince dressed in commoner's clothes and sitting on a milk stool. "Prince Marcus, what answer should we give these three men."
     Staring open mouthed at the three dread warriors with their mighty weapons and arrogant attitudes, he blurted out. "I don’t know! Just look at these men, they are fearsome. Give them anything they want!" He fled out of the throne room casting a terrified look over his shoulder at the warriors. Those who witnessed his fear lost respect for his leadership.
     Later that day the three warriors departed, hurrying away to tell their master the earl that leadership in the kingdom had collapsed.
     The guards grumbled that Prince Marcus failed to practice arms with them. People were upset that he had lost his friendly manner, and castle servants mocked him.
     Prince Marcus often wandered around the castle looking for something to eat. "I wish I could have decent food to eat." Even though he was the prince and the greatest chefs would cook anything he wanted, he scoured the scraps out of the dog's bowls then sat on a stair step and ate greasy mush with his fingers. Often he slept in the stables, and sometimes in the courtyard; he wandered the city, lonely and friendless during these days. Seeing noble people riding fine horses he longed to be one, even thought he already was. Watching people wearing fine clothes he wished for some not realizing his were in the castle. He would want better things than the commoners rags but felt they were never to be his.      The Black Earl, assured of the weakness in leadership, marched his black steel clad men into the city. The king was too old to lead solders in battle, and Duke Frederick was too cowardly.
     Prince Marcus was at the river fishing when the invaders rode past in their armor and horses"How I wish I could be one of them." He thought. "I wish I could ride a horse and wear armor. I wish I had a gallant sword to wield against a foe. I wish I knew how to do such things and be such a man." He had forgotten he was a prince and a captain of solders.
     The invaders conquered the leaderless army in an hour and imprisoned the king in the castle dudgeon.
     The prince wandered the streets begging food, lost among refugees.      Earl Lewis began to rob the country starting with the castle. The royal treasure was stacked high on carts to carry back to the Black Earl's estate.Treasure laden carts creaked as they rumbled down the street. The city's broken people wept to see the country’s treasure leaving, it was as if hope and the future was being taken away.
     The prince stood,feeling small in the crowd, wishing something would happen, wishing to be able to lead, inspire and save the country. Watching in despair as carts rumble over the cobbled streets.
      The Black Earl's solders and horsemen crammed the street. They moved slowly and cautiously as wagons groaned under the weight of the great wealth of gold and silver.An axle broke, shearing a wooden wheel off and the wagon tumbled on its side, casting treasures among the crowd.
     "Pick those things up, you beggars!" the Earl's soldier yelled. And;pile them next to the cart while we fetch a black smith." Prince Titus shuffled among impoverished people and began to pick up spilled treasure. A box lay on it's side. Under it was something strange and familiar. He shoved the box upright and there in the mud was his own royal sword. He picked it up and something happened. Feeling the sword hilt in his hand had a familiarity to him. His arm felt the weight of the blade, like a good old friend. Raising the sword, his eyes narrowed and his jaw clenched in a face now set with a warriors hardness. He remembered.
     Leaping on the fallen cart he yelled out. "To arms! To arms all faithful men! Archers to the roofs. Knights of the guard rally to me! Bar the city gates let none of the black army escape." When people saw his attitude and courage they recognized he was the prince. A battle cry spread through the narrow streets and the city rose to combat. Narrow crowded streets were not the open fields the Earl's army trained for. Archers rained arrows upon them and the people overwhelmed the trapped army. Victory was swift and complete.
     Duke Frederick's poison was found out, and he was imprisoned, the Black Earl fled to live in exile. Prince Titus Marcus was named Regent and ruled until the king died in peace and then was crowned King. He ruled wisely and with vision for many years and his rule was a blessed golden age in the history of that land. When visitors to the Hall of Justice wondered at the fishing pole leaning against the king's throne, King Marcus Titus would say, "We all must never forget who we truly are and always act accordingly."

***

Many Christians know they are given riches, blessings, and son-ship but never act on it. They say "Yes, I am a Christian." But they don’t realize what it means. We need to know who we are, not who we feel we are, or who other people say we are. As Christians we are given position, the Holy Spirit, gifts, blessings, fruit, relationship and much, more, we must avail ourselves of it.
"How great is the love the Father has lavished upon us that we should be called the sons of God!"" 1 John 3:1a, NIV
(c) Adron

The Position, a Modern Parable. 1 Thessalonians 2:3

The Position
A Modern Parable

Preface: I wrote this modern parable for teaching in my Church Sunday School Class. I hope you find inspiration in it.

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THE POSITION,

A MODERN PARABLE

Andy's parents were honest, hard working people but times were bad and their business was doing poorly; so poorly that they couldn't pay back the bank loan.

“Wait here in the lobby while we go upstairs and talk to the loan agents,” Andy's dad said. "We may be a while so work on your homework. Afterward well see the sights in the city."

The lobby was big and had many chairs to sit in; Andy sat down in one next to a low table. He enjoyed watching the people around him, and said hello to those close by and smiled at others across the room. He opened his backpack and brought out his homework textbooks, Andy was proud of his grades.

Beyond the glass entry door an old man with a cane struggled up the steps. Without a thought Andy went out and gently helped the old man, saying, “Here, sir, let me hold your arm. Let me get the door. Watch the step.” Slowly the man was helped inside and across the lobby. As Andy returned to the chair he picked up some litter and put it in the trash can by the security desk.

A crowd of people came off of the elevators and nosily ambled through the lobby. With alarm Andy saw a binder on the floor as they left. Leaping from the chair he scooped up the binder and ran to the door where he called out while waiving the binder until a lady came to claim it.

Back at his seat he found a wallet with large green bills poking out of the fold, it lay on the little table next to his textbook. Andy looked at it in amazement; it was not there a minute ago. Andy wondered where it came from. Picking it up he looked around but now the lobby was empty except for the security guard at the desk writing a report in a book.

Going to the Guard he asked, “Did you see someone by the chair where I was sitting? They lost this wallet.”

“No, I didn't, but I think I know who it belongs to. I will put it in the safe until I find the owner.”

The window cleaner entered the lobby with his buckets and poles. Andy saw that the man had no room to work, so he got up and moved things out of the man's way. Andy sat down to finish his homework and struggled with a particularly difficult math problem.

“Hello.” Said a voice.

Looking up He and saw an elderly man in a nice suit standing before him.

“Good morning," said Andy, "How are you?”

“Just fine," replied the gentleman. "I've been watching you. You have been busy.”

“Oh, well, I'm just waiting for my parents. They are at a meeting and then we will see some of the city before we go home.”

“And I see you are working on your homework?”

“Yes, but I am stuck on this problem.”

“Math is one of my specialties may I look at it?”

“Sure, I would be glad to have help.” Andy showed the problem to the elderly man. “But I have to learn it on my own. You know, that is just right way.”

“You are very wise to have that attitude. You know I watched you helping the window washer. That was thoughtful.”

“Oh, thank you sir. It is just the Golden Rule. You know, do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

“And I saw you pick up some litter and put it in the trash.”

“Well, it is just the thing a good citizen does. Oh, did you louse a wallet with some money in it.”

“No, I didn't. Did you find one?”

"Yes the security guard has it.”

“I'm sure it will get into the right hands. I saw you greeting people and being friendly,” Said the elderly man.

“We should be friendly, it is respectful, and honors God their Creator.”

“Young man,” the elderly man was using a new tone of voice and sounded less friendly and more serious. “I put the paper on the floor, I asked the window washer to wash those windows, and I invited the old man to come though I knew he would not be able to open the door while holding a cane. I dropped the wallet and I hired those people to drop the binder.”

Now Andy was becoming concerned. He wondered if he was in trouble.

The elderly man continued. “I own a business and I have an open position that I need to fill. I don’t want to waste my time sorting through all the greedy, ambitious, people who will do anything to get ahead that will apply. So I set up a test in this lobby. I sat in the corner watching people and any one could have done the thoughtful righteous things you did, but no one did, just you. So, would you like an honest position in my company? It could be part time since you have to finish school.”

“What is the job?” Andy asked. “What is the company? And who are you.”

“The position is a good one, it is hard but you will have no problem doing it.”

“I should talk to my parents first. If they say it is ok, then sure.”

“Good,” Said the elderly man in a kindly cheerful voice. “Here, take my card; show it to your parents. They will know what to do. You can start Monday.” And the elderly gentleman got up, shook his hand and walked out the lobby door.

“Son who was that.” his parents walked up.

“Here is his card, Dad.” Andy held the card up for his father to take. His father's mouth opened and his eyes grew big.

“What is it honey?” Andy's mom leaned over to see. “Oh my!”

“Andy do you know who that was?” Dad looked intent.

“Who?”

“Bernard R. St. John. He is the owner of this bank and a bunch of other business as well. He is one of the richest men in the country. What did he want?”

Andy explained what happened while they were away. He finished saying, “He wanted me to work for him Dad. Part time of course, since I'm still in school.”

“Well, sure you can.”

Next Monday. Andy took a bus to the bank office. A little nervous he walked through the doors. The receptionist glanced at him casually, “May I help you?” she said in a lazy voice as if she didn’t care to be bothered by a kid selling magazine subscriptions.

“I'm Andy, Mr. St. John told me to come to work here. I’m starting today.”
She looked up suddenly, her eyes big. “You're Mr. Andy? You are the one starting today? Oh.” She picked up a phone receiver hit a button and said, “Mr. St John. Mr. Andy is here.” She paused. “Yes.” She put the receiver down. “Take the elevator to the top floor. They are waiting for you.”

Andy had summer jobs before but this looked like nothing he expected. As he road the smooth ride on the elevator he wondered who “they” were that were waiting for him. The elevator doors opened into a large room with a big meeting table in the center and a crowd of business people standing in groups around it. They turned to look at him in silence.

“May we help you?” said a man in a grey suit.

“I was told to come to this room. I am starting work today. Mr. St. John arranged it.”

“OK. Just wait a minute Mr. St. John is coming shortly.” A man in a black suit said.

“I think this young fellow wanted to go to human resources on the third floor. Just take the elevator to the third floor and go right.” A Woman said.

Another man stepped up. “You better get going. We were about to have a very important meeting with Mr. St. John and his new Co-Chief Operating Partner.”

Just then the elevator opened and Mr. St. John walked in. He went around the room shaking hands. After a moment one said. “Where is the new Co-Chief Operating Partner? We were looking forward to meeting our new boss.”

“But you already have.” Mr. St. John walked to the head of the table and stood. “Please, everybody sit down. Mr. Andy, please bring that chair and set it next to this one.”

Andy felt good to have something to do, this was more like it. He lifted the chair from the corner and placed it next to the one Mr. St. John indicated. He looked at Mr. St. John, smiled and took a step back to give Mr. St. John room to do his job. Mr. St. John sat down.

“Andy, have a seat.” Mr. St. John indicated the chair. “Gentlemen, my last business partner proved to be dishonest, untrustworthy, and to deeply lack character. Since I have companies in dozens of countries, in many industries, employing thousands of workers; and since these companies are worth many billions of dollars I feel I need a partner. I prepared a test, a test of character. I ran this test for weeks in the lobby of our bank. Only one person passed the test, and that one person is my new partner. You will follow his instructions as if they were mine. He has the same authority to hire, fire, open factories, develop products, buy and sell and every other thing that I do to guide and grow our many enterprises; he will be my equal in every way. What I earn He will earn, and we will split evenly all bonuses, and pay. That person is...” Mr. St. John paused and put his hand on Andy's shoulder, “Is Mr. Andy. He is young but that is not a problem, indeed it is an advantage in many ways.”

“Me?” Andy gave a start and stared at Mr. St. John. “No way. I thought you said you had a position for me.”

“Yes, the position of Co-Chief Operating Partner.”

“But I am not qualified.”

“You only need one thing to be qualified for this position; your qualification is my choice of you.”

Mr. St. John kept his word, and Andy was indeed his equal partner. Andy brought fresh ideas and honest integrity to the many business activities they undertook and together they did much good for many people.

This is a far fetched tale since it is so unlikely that a multimillionaire will make an untried youth his equal partner but something far greater has happened many times over; the King of the universe has redeemed sinners and made them his partner and heir. For when we come to Jesus we become partners with God in His work here on the earth. "We sent Timothy to you, who is our brother and God's fellow worker in spreading the gospel of Christ." 1st Thessalonians 3:2: "God's fellow worker" in other words a partner.

(C)Adron Dozat

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Adron 

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