The Briefcase

The day after Robert died, I went into the shelter to see the guys. As I was getting ready to leave, a gentleman who I had met only one time before approached me. He asked if he could talk to me privately, so we sat and talked.

He showed me the briefcase and explained that he carries it all day with him, afraid to leave it anywhere in fear that someone may take it. He said that his whole life was in there, who to contact if something happened and who he was to the world. He then asked if I would please take it home and keep it for him.

So I brought it home to hold for him. It sits in the corner of one of my rooms. As I pass by it from time to time, it brings thoughts of this gentleman to my mind. I think of what a privilege to be trusted as the keeper of all that he thinks he is and what is important to him.

But then I begin to pray for my friend, praying that he will learn to know that the Creator All Mighty has given him more worth and value than what that small briefcase can ever hold and the love the Lord has for him can never be contained and stored away in a corner.