When we talk about “the family Bible,” that usually refers to an ornate edition resting on a coffee table or a dusty heirloom carefully stored away.
But for the Lamberts, the family Bible has been a bit more utilitarian.
It’s just a small thing ”“ a pocket-sized New Testament and Psalms ”“ worn and frayed with use.
And what incredible use.
Clarence Lambert, 85, received the Bible during World War II. He was a 21-year-old Navy cook on a remote Alaskan island.
He and an Army chaplain hit it off. Homesick for Dallas, Clarence enjoyed hearing Lt. L.J. Gray talk about his home in Stratford, Okla.
In one of their visits, Lt. Gray presented Clarence with a small Gideon Bible ”“ a standard military issue.
Though nothing special in appearance, it meant the world to Clarence. “When you’re as young as I was then and that far from home, a Bible meant a lot,” he said.