In the books I read and the movies I watched when I was a kid, pirate treasure was often the subject. The way to find the treasure was to first find a map, then find the “X” on the map, go to that spot, and dig up the gold and jewels. These days, the treasure we’re hunting for is the COVID vaccine. Only there are no maps.

My wife and I share the same primary care physician who works for a large healthcare outfit. Marleen and I were born in the same year, live in the same house, and share the same last name. The healthcare network sent out a message to each of us that we would be contacted when the vaccine became available.  The email would contain a number unique to the individual. With said number, one could go online and schedule an appointment to get the vaccine. Great, I thought. We’re in good hands.

About two weeks later, I received the email with my number. Immediately I went online only to discover that there were no appointments available anywhere nearby. Still unconcerned, I figured my wife would soon get her number, and we could go together when appointments opened up.

I tried for two weeks, then finally there were lots of open times available, though not at our clinic or in our hometown. Feeling guilty because my beloved spouse could not make an appointment, I made mine for two days later. It was in the next town. I got my shot, made an appointment for the second dose, and started to search for that treasure for my wife.

I signed her up to be notified when the vaccine was available at the drugstore chain in town. No luck. I tried to ask our clinic, but they just said, “Wait for her number.” I talked to my neighbors as they walked their dogs past the house. They got their shots at the county health department. So I got her name on that list too. My friends, vacationing in Florida had appointments at their clinic for when they were coming back. Maybe I could try there.

Marleen talked to friends at church about her dilemma. Then, just a few days ago, her friend Katie called to say that another friend had told her that a local pharmacy had vaccine and open appointments. Katie had just scheduled her shot. She gave Marleen the phone number. Marleen hung up immediately and made the call. Yes! They had openings in two days. So yesterday she finally got that treasure we were looking for.

What struck me about this whole matter (apart from the abysmal lack of organization of every entity responsible for actually sticking needles in people’s arms) was the way word of mouth did a better job of spreading the good news than all the wiz bang technology that’s supposed to make communication better. Friends and neighbors proved more effective at locating the treasure for us than any “X” on a Google map.

This is also the way the Gospel (God’s Good News) spreads most effectively. It’s not the biggest screen or the most elaborate website or the most charming TV preacher that wins the most souls. It’s the friend who loves you, or the kind stranger, someone who just tells you the news, “Christ died for your sins.” It’s the patient Sunday School teacher, or the wise elder, or your Pastor who most effectively shows you the way. They tell you that the greatest treasure is right there in front of you, and it’s free. Guilt can be washed away, hope can be restored, life can take on new meaning, and the future can be secure. All can be yours by the grace of God, through faith in Jesus. The Bible is your map, “X” marks the spot where Jesus died on the cross, and you don’t even have to travel to receive the treasure. And having found it, you want to tell everyone. The treasure is not to be buried; it is to be shared, with everyone. The supply is unlimited and no appointment is necessary.

And {Jesus} said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation. Mark 16:15 (ESV)