Transcript

A wise woman once found a precious stone in a stream. The next day, she met a traveler who was hungry. When she opened her bag to share her food, the hungry traveler saw the precious stone and asked her for that instead. Without pause, she gave him the stone. The traveler left rejoicing—the stone’s value would buy a lifetime of security.

Days later, the traveler returned and gave the stone back to the woman. "I know its high value," he said, "but now I want something more precious. I want what it is in you that enabled you to give me this stone."

This is Howard Butt, Jr., of Laity Lodge. We can be defined by what we acquire or by what we freely give. And giving is the real treasure—in the high calling of our daily work.

"Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

(Luke 12:32-34)