A Delicate Heirloom

I do not possess too many items of great value. Most of my possessions that I hold dear

have more of a sentimental value than a numerical one. One of these items I hold dear is a pocket watch which belonged to my Great Grandfather. My grandfather was a sailor in the late 1800’s and sp

ent many years sailing around the the world till he settled in California. There have been times I have held that watch in my hand while picturing him standing on the deck of a sailing ship while gazing at that very same watch.

I take special care when holding that watch. Its glass face could be easily broke, its hands could be bent if played with, and although I have the keys to the watch, none in my family have dared try to wind the watch for fear that it will break. Although the watch is not made from valuable materials or by a famous watchmaker, to me, it is a delicate heirloom to cherish, protect and hold dear.

In in the book of 1st Peter, the recipients are encouraged to treat their wives with love and kindness. The text reads:

Husbands, in the same way, treat your wives with consideration as a delicate vessel, and with honor as fellow heirs of the gracious gift of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered. (1 Peter 3:7 BSB)

When I hold my Great Grandfather’s watch, I do so with great care and gentleness. It is my prayer that I will always treat my wife with the same concern. Husbands should view their wives as “delicate heirlooms”, to be protected and cherished. A husband should never be cruel, rude, harsh or rough with his wife. Husbands often take their wives for granted. A wife is a precious gift, a delicate heirloom, and should be treated as such.