Lying on the nightstand is a tattered and torn old book that appears to be ready to be discarded. The wear is obvious. The hours of use is so evident as one turns the pages. Some tear stains have yellowed and others seem more recent. A special word is marked in blue ink, and a phrase is penciled in red. The yellow highlight is still prominent but some of the pages are smudged by the years.

The cover is worn and dirty and pages are now like old parchment from age. But the hours this book has spent comforting, uplifting, soothing the fears and wiping the tears are apparent for all to see. It is a book of mystery, intrigue, poetry, prophecies, instruction and History fills each page.

This tattered old book is pricelss and its contents are more precious than gold. It is Mama's old, tear-filled Bible. It fill my heart with joy, and then at times, it brings me to my knees in prayer and thanksgiving. The message between the covers will never grow old, though the pages are faded and some words no longer clear. The truth and promises will not pass away and the miracles still happen today just as they did long ago.

I am reminded with each tattered old page of this book, that someday soon we will have no need to leaf through its pages. Soon we will be with the Author, our Heavenly Father, and how glorious that day! We wait patiently until that day when we can with blessings beyond measure, look into His wonderful face!

Down through the ages, I will be ever thankful for Mama's tattered and torn old book, as I walk the streets of pure gold. I will be ever happy and content throughout all of eternity in my heavenly home.....because of Mama's love that taught me all about this tattered and torn old book.

Terri Walker Brumbaugh (copyright 1984)
All rights reserved by the author