Once upon a time there was a proud man named Carl. who loved to ride on his horse through his vast estate and pat himself on the back because of his enormous wealth. One day he came upon Hans, an old tenant farmer. He was sitting in the shade of a giant oak about to have his lunch Hans' hands were folded and he was bowed in prayer.

When Hans looked up he said "Oh excuse me sir. I didn't see you." "I was giving thanks for my food and my life".

"Humph!", snorted the rich man noticing the course brown bread and cheese that made up the old mans lunch. "If that were all I had to eat I don't think I would be giving thanks."

Oh replied Hans " it is quite enough for me". "But sir; its remarkable that I meet you here this morning. I had a strange dream last night."

And what did you dream asked the rich man, with an amused smile?

"There was beauty and peace all around, a yet I could hear a voice saying the richest man in the valley will die tonight."

"Ah dreams; cried Carl, nonsense." He turned and galloped away.

"Die tonight!" mused Carl. "Its ridiculous!" No use going into a panic." The best thing he thought he could do was forget the old man's dream He felt fine. Well now he was not so sure. Maybe he wasn't feeling all too well after all. He called his doctor. The doctor came over, and Carl described Han's dream.

How the richest man in the valley will die this very night. "Sounds like nonsense to me replied the doctor." "But for your own peace of mind let me examine you."

After he was done the doctor was all smiles. "Carl your as strong and healthy as that horse you ride." There is no way you are going to die tonight".

Just as the doctor was closing his bag, a messenger arrived at the door. "Doctor, doctor," he cried, "come quick!, its old Hans, I think he died in his sleep!"

Being rich has nothing to do with money or possessions. But it has everything to do with having a relationship with God.

• Added: February 26, 2000
• Posted By: OurChive Network
• Web Site: The OurChive Network, A great list for ministers maintained by the Rev. Maureen Christopher

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