When You Find A Surprising Treasure

When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. — Luke 2:15-19

I have never found some great treasure, but I hear about it when people do. Treasure found at the bottom of the sea. Treasure found on deserted islands. Treasure found at a garage sale.

For example, take this guy. Rick Norsigian, who, in 2002, purchased a set of glass plates with images of Yosemite National Park printed on them. He paid $45 for the set at a garage sale. Then he discovered they were the work of Ansel Adams. They were worth about $200 million.

Pretty cool find, right?

Now imagine the shame of being pregnant out of wedlock. The shame of bearing a child having never had sex. Defending this truth with your family, friends, and future husband. Then bearing this burden for nine months only to be on a journey and unable to find a place to stay. So you end up staying with your husband in a garage stable, giving birth, and laying your baby in a feeding trough. Sound like a pretty worthless situation. Until, of course, a few shepherds arrive who were told by an angel about a King that was born in a manger. They arrive at the garage stable to discover the greatest treasure ever. A divine child is lying in a humble manger who would be the Savior of the World. There is no value we can ever put on this — he is our priceless treasure. Celebrate him today.

ASK THIS: Are you celebrating God's priceless treasure?

DO THIS: Celebrate Him.

PRAY THIS: God, thank you for giving us, Jesus.

PLAY THIS: Thank You.