Thursday, April 19, 2007

The Coal Basket Bible...........

The Coal Basket Bible The story is told of an old man who lived on a farm in the mountains of Kentucky with his young grandson. Each morning, grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading from his old worn out Bible. His grandson, who wanted to be just like him, tried to imitate him in any way he could One day, the grandson asked, "Papa, I try to read the Bible just like you; but I don't understand it. And what I do understand, I forget as soon as I close the book. What good does reading the Bible do?"The grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and said,"Take this coal basket down to the river and bring back a basket of water."

The boy did as he was told, even though all the water leaked out before he could get back to the house. The grandfather laughed and said, "You will have to move a little faster next time," and sent him back to the river with the basket to try again. This time the boy ran faster, but again the basket was empty before he returned home. Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was"impossible to carry water in a basket"; and he went to get a bucket instead.The old man said, "I don't want a bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You can do this. You're just not trying hard enough," and he went out the door to watch the boy try again. At this point, the boy knew it was impossible; but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would leak out before he got far.The boy scooped the water and ran hard; but when he reached his grandfather,the basket was again empty. Out of breath, he said, "See, Papa, it's useless!""So you think it's useless?" The old man said, "Look at the basket."The boy looked at the basket; and for the first time, he realized that the basket looked different. Instead of a dirty old coal basket, it was clean."Son, that's what happens when you read the Bible. You might not understand or remember everything; but when you read it, it will change you from the inside out." That is the work of God in our lives. To change us from the inside out and to slowly transform us into the image of His son .Take time to read a portion of God's word each day and remind a friend by sharing this story."Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly, leave the rest to God!"

12 comments:

ShabbyInTheCity said...

Thats a great story. I have to remind myself sometimes that I need to read it and cleanse myself.

Tracy said...

I loved this!

dot said...

Wonderful story!

Barbara said...

How right you are Betty. God is still on the throne and still in control and always will be.

Reflection Through The Seasons said...

Betty this wise old man instructs his grandson well with this lovely little parable. Hope you are enjoying your day. Sunny and warm here again, I’ve been tackling a mountain of ironing, but I’ve had enough now. Love - Marion

Susie said...

I loved reading the lesson that Grandpa was teaching his grandson :)

Mary L. Briggs said...

What a beautiful story, Betty. Thanks so much for sharing it. Sometimes it's so easy to feel like that little boy, until we remember that with God anything is possible--even carrying water in a basket, if He needs you to!

Candy said...

Loved this too! :)

Tina Leigh said...

That was a really good story...I was wondering how it would turn out! Yeah I need washin...I usually get washed every morning with a cup of coffee. Reading about David right now! I love David!

Kim @ Home Is Where The Heart Is said...

What a great story...thanks for sharing this Betty!

Anita said...

Yes, what a wise story this is.

Betty, congratulations to the gorgeous collage your won! It looks amazing! If only I had more time! I'd love to try such collages as well!

Have a great start into a wonderfull week-end!

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