The most precious gems

A quick review:
Since May I have graduated from college, been engaged, married, visited Europe and moved across the country. I know live in New England with my wonderful husband, Adam. Currently I am applying to graduate schools with the hope of beginning studies next fall. I'm interested in molecular and cellular biology programs, just like that husband of mine. During this off year I am also working part time as a tutor and dog walker; I enjoy both very much.

I told my husband recently that every time I attend church or read from the bible or some other Christian writing, I walk away with a new idea or understanding about life and Christ. It’s like I’m constantly collecting little gems radiant with color and energy and with each one I collect I want to shine it and explore it’s endless facets. As I continue to collect them, I realize the light they give off creates a picture, which ever so slightly allows a glimpse of the truth in life. If there has ever been something addicting, something exciting, something electrifying, something that makes complete and utter sense, what this picture shows you is it. For example, you might stumble upon the gem that when you pray in Christ’s name, you can move mountains. Maybe you go home and try it and a mountain in your life is thrown into the sea. Splash. How can you take your eyes off of that gem now? I imagine, in this little picture I’m developing in my mind, your eyes would grow large as you stare in disbelief and astonishment at the power of this tiny gem that’s been freely set into your hands. Delicately you place it before you and it gives off that glowing ray of light in which you see is Goodness, Righteousness, Truth, shining through from heaven into this dark world.

Each gem can shine because the holder believes and lives in the way that the gem teaches them to. Christ left behind endless gems for us to collect and the bible overflows with them, but they cannot truly shine until we bring them out and allow them to radiate through our lives. You don't have to be a Pastor or a great theologian to share them. By cherishing them yourself, you begin to give off the same sort of shine that they do. Unknowingly you radiate joy, peace, compassion and love onto those around you.
We cannot know heaven before we reach it. We can't. It is so beyond human comprehension. These gems we collect, they help us take a tiny peak at what perfect life with God is like. I am also confident that once you collect just one, you won't be able to ever look away. It's so profound, it is nearly impossible.

The room for gems in my life is without bound. You might say I crave them. I look forward to bible studies and church services, reading the bible and other Christian works, and seeking God's guidance in gathering them into my life while shining and sharing those I already have. No matter where you are as a Christian, and even as a non-believer, if you approach God with an open heart, you will find these gems. On this earth you can never hold them all, and it will always be worth your time to look for more.