Do you know what's around the next bend in your life?

Do you know what’s around the next bend in your life?

Sometimes we are searching for an unknown treasure without an identity.  It is a very common thought for man to want what he does not have and must seek for that fulfillment without a name.  This search may be for something needed  but would rather pass for that entity that promises instant gratification.  

We may encounter a package that will either disappoint us because it does not instantly please our desire for pleasure, or find within the wrappings just what our salivating mind has promised to please us.  However, once we unwrap this beautifully bound treasure it produces an emptiness that gives everything that turns into sadness and contempt for anything good.  Where is the desire pleasing tentacles that will wrap my feelings of human needs of pleasure, you think?  The discovery of nothing worthwhile has become short-lived and may bring an emptiness that will bring a person to their knees which in itself is a blessing.

Turn the choice of receiving what has been discovered is not wrapped with ribbons and attracting colors but just in a plain brown paper.  Upon opening the package you find an invitation to follow an undetermined journey that will not be covered with gold and popular wealth, but a path filled with the needs of so many of your fellow citizens, many of whom are your own family and close friends.  You see, what is usually hidden from the eyes of people who search for treasures that deteriorate and promise only failure are those who look for instant gratification.  They need to remove the blinders and see those in need.  

Your selection of a simple enveloped package opens a window of success that promises nothing earthly or with instant acknowledgment by others for your work.  Most times, there is only one who sees and rewards your efforts, and he sets an example for you on Calvary.  Jesus Christ who had this package placed around the corner you have chosen to walk.

As the season of Advent approaches and each one looks to purchase gifts for Christmas the very essence of giving is packaged with the love we can share wrapped in helping the one person without hope, the mother who hasn't enough food for her family, or the lonely neighbor without family to wish him/her a Merry Christmas.  That is the package wrapped in plain brown paper that envelops the Love of God; open it and discover the true meaning of Christmas!

Ralph B. Hathaway