Showing posts with label treasure. Show all posts
Showing posts with label treasure. Show all posts

Saturday, July 1, 2023

Garden Surprise!

Matthew 13: 44-46
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.

The columbine had finished blooming. 

The other day, I cut back the columbine, an early spring bloomer, and opened up a spot in the front of my garden. With the spent flowers gone, the pink and white flox shined and flowered to their fullest, but the best surprise, hidden under the other plants, was the sweet little pinkish-red begonia. I had no idea this little guy even existed. He hid under the other plants, yet his blossom pushed forth.

I admit, my heart did a little flip-flop of excitement when I spied the tiny thing. I'd thought about buying some begonias and planting them this year, but never did, so this little one brought me unexpected joy. I hope it grows and continues to bloom this summer.

Like my hidden treasure in the flower bed, the kingdom of heaven is a gift to us. I didn't buy it, but Jesus did. He's the one who buys the field, in the parable, so He can share the treasure with the people who love and believe in Him.

The same with the pearls. Jesus gave everything so that we could be part of the kingdom of heaven. I can't buy my way into salvation or heaven, but Jesus can and did. He traded His life for mine because He loves so much. When I spied the little begonia, I was reminded of Jesus' great love and His gift of eternal life. His gift is free for anyone who wants it.

Seek Jesus and receive His treasure.

Monday, August 23, 2021

Christmas Novella Review: A Christmas in the Alps by Melody Carlson

Book Description:
After a time of heartache and loss, Simone Winthrop discovers a tantalizing letter from her French great-grandmother, which seems to suggest that she is heir to a family treasure. Ever practical, Simone assumes the claim is baseless, but her best friend encourages her to find out for sure. Despite her deep-rooted fear of flying, Simone boards a jet to travel to Paris at Christmastime to uncover the truth.

During the long flight, Simone meets the charming Kyle Larsson, who's on his way to France to become an apprentice clockmaker. Though they abruptly part ways, an unexpected rendezvous in the French Alps at Simone's family's clock factory may lead to the discovery of the family treasure . . . and so much more.

For anyone who is wearying of staying home, Melody Carlson invites you to spend Christmas with her in the beautiful French Alps this year. So pull on your mittens, tie your scarf tight, and prepare yourself for a magical mountain holiday.

My Thoughts:
A Christmas in the Alps is a lovely story of family, reflection, and holiday joy. Melody Carlson has created the perfect story to sweep the reader away to the Swiss Alps for a beautiful holiday experience. I enjoyed the family history Simone discovered when she arrived in their little hometown, snuggled into the Alps. The setting is perfect for a holiday tale. As Simone searches for her family treasure, she finds much more than she ever expected. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.