Taste & See

I have been enjoying our youngest daughter living with us these days.  She has become the “home chef” - introducing us to some fine cuisine (most of it is vegan, but it is really delicious).  It got me thinking about Psalm 34.8: “Taste and See that the Lord is good!”  To “taste” something means we have to eat something.  What is it God wants us to eat and taste?  I looked up the word “eat” in the Bible, and was surprised at how many verses talk about this very common, ordinary act.  But, I sense something more profoundly Spiritual than just eating a meal.  After all, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on ever word that comes from the mouth of God.”   To taste the goodness of God is about digesting the presence of God by savoring the Word of God.

How often do you find yourself rushing through a meal, or eating while doing work or some other activity?  Do you eat on the run - grab and go - drive thru - take out?  That is not healthy.  Neither is rushing through the Word of God.  The Bible, inspired by the Holy Spirit, is given to us in order that we might taste and see the goodness of God.  As we read, we need to savor every word.  We need to allow it to digest properly, to be absorbed into our inner being, to allow it to transform us, to breathe life into us, in order that we might be sustained throughout the day and week.  Since we eat earthly food every day – let us eat God’s Word every day.   We cannot be sustained by God’s Word if we ingest it only on Sunday.  We need God’s daily bread.

As I looked at the word “eat” in the Bible, I was reminded that we also need to spend time literally eating together – break bread – share a meal – even celebrate Communion.  It is by breaking bread with believers that we are also sustained throughout life.  We are to come together regularly – encouraging one another one – spurring one another on to love and good deeds.  That is why Christ built His Church.  That is what the early Christians practiced – they went to the Temple, but they also broke bread together in each other’s homes on a daily basis.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a whole lot of breaking bread together during this pandemic.  You may need to share a meal over Zoom or FaceTime.  Or, gather at a park, or in a backyard.  Social distance – bring your own food perhaps  - and if appropriate, wear a mask.

However, consider the fact that Jesus was criticized for eating “with sinners and tax collectors”. Maybe during these days it’s a great opportunity to share a meal and engage in conversation with those who do not know the goodness of God and His salvation - YET.  The dinner table is a good place to have some of those spiritual conversations.  Most people consider themselves “spiritual” or “religious”, and believe it nor not, are open to those kinds of conversations when it is done in love – what a great way to Love God and Love Others with Drops of Grace.