If some mysterious person left a precious gift for us, would we not likely give thanks to God for blessing us.
That must have been what an assistant priest of St. Nicolas of Myrna Church in Encino, California thought when he discovered an original Rembrandt drawing, 'The Judgement' in the church. After deeper consideration, he called police and reported the item.
The drawing, valued at $250,000, had been stolen from the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Marina del Rey in an unguarded moment as it was being hung for an exhibit.
Authorities speculate that the crime was possibly committed by someone who did not have the connections to fence such a high profile work of art. In order to not get caught with the drawing, they disposed of it in the church. Neither the pastor nor others associated with the church are suspects.
There are several things worth noting about this case. First, that the pastor recognized the artwork as a Rembrandt. Secondly, that he was honest in returning the drawing.
One might think, of course I too would return it. However, have you ever received too much change on a small purchase and thought, "God is blessing me," as you quickly walked out of the store?
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