I Found Him-Off Beaten Path

You all have heard phrases like ”You can’t judge a book by looking at the cover” or “All that shines is not gold”. These came to mind recently as I traveled the back roads, off of the beaten path, and stumbled across the “Good Earth Peanut Company”. Based solely on the exterior, my expectations were fairly low. But upon entering the store and talking to the owner and its employees-wow! The people are genuinely friendly and have a passion to produce products unlike any found in fancy chain stores. And they do; the chocolate covered peanut brittle, for example, is awesome.

Jesus talked often about how unimportant one’s outward appearance is compared to what is in their heart. Jesus verbalized this concept in his Seven Woes in the 23rd chapter of Matthew. Verses 25-26 (NIV), for example, says: “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of your cup and dish, but inside are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean”.

Jesus teaches us to be humble servants; not for show but simply for the love of Christ. Just as I was pleasantly shocked at the gem I found within this store with a deceiving exterior, so may we strive to be gems on the inside, through faith, love, and humbleness.

I Found Him…off the beaten path.