A few weeks back, I was watching news on TV, and on the screen popped Elizabeth Taylor's beautiful ring given her by one of her husbands, Richard Burton. The auctioneer who was giving the interviews guessed that had it been the property of just anyone, it would easily bring thirty or forty thousand dollars. But, because it belonged to such a famous star as Mrs. Taylor, in a general auction, the man pointed out, "the sky is the limit!"
I am not going to deny it, the ring was esquisitely beautiful! But moments later, in a flash of reflective thinking, I wondered if it within itself, could quench the pain in anyone's heart? Could it produce true and lasting happiness? That large emerald surround by five carats of diamonds, if it were in my possession when I was lost in the midst of the burning sands of the Sahara, could it quench my hunger, could it soften my thirst? Then what could the ring do? Vanity, just sadisfying human vanity.
How strange that people often place such a tremendous value on such inanimate objects, totally incapable of satidfying the yearnings of the inner man. As for assistance and help for eternal values, every hope of ever satisfying its possessor with such is eclipsed. And yet, things of value, true value, are inexpensive! One of these Heavenly blessings, is friendship! But not the kind of friendship which often is cheapened by ulterior motives and hidden intentions. Rather, A friendship that is willing to help regardless of the circumstances; a friendship which is ready to sacrifice for the good of the friend! A true friend is one to whom we may pour out the contents of our hearts, chaff and grain together, knowing that the gentlest of hands will sift it, keep what is worth keeping, and with a gentle breath of kindness blow the rest away!
If there is any "diamond" greater in value and beauty than Him who calls our eternal spirit into espousal and eternal communion, I know not. For in spite of our faults and failures, he is not ashamed to call us His brethern. By our importunities, human infirmities and our unworthiness, we may weary the most patient human friend. However, we can never tire the precious Friend, who gladly gave His life for you and me. Before this blessing, the blessing of our eternal salvation, there is no ring however great its value and beauty might be, which does not pale before the love of Jesus Christ!
If you have not found Him yet, seek this Friend, search for His unfailing friendship, and gladly give up any ring and any wealth. Your rewards will be eternal!