At issue in the text is whether or not to eat foods that have been offered to idols. Another food issue in the early church was whether or not to eat pork. This is still an issue among some religious communities today. The point that Paul makes in regard to food is to not let it become a defining divisive issue.As he puts is: "Let us therefore no longer pass judgment on one another, but resolve instead never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of another. ... For the kingdom of God is not food and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. The one who thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and has human approval. Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding. Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. " (Romans 14:13, 17-19)
Be aware today of what you eat. Where did it come from? Whose hands produced it? Which corporation modified it? Which company distributes it? What role did God play in its appearance upon your plate? Give thanks to God for what you have to eat. Notice your food before you eat it. Eat slowly and gain less weight. Eat thoughtfully and gain some wisdom.
Song for the day is "The Frim Fram Sauce" by Nat King Cole > http://tr.im/lqyl (via Todd Hill's suggestion)
Lauren Winner's exquisite little volume "Mudhouse Sabbath" includes an excellent chapter on becoming more intentional in our food consumption and prep.
ReplyDeleteHer book seeks to reclaim some of her lost Jewish roots after her adult conversion to Christ. It is heartening and masterful as she succeeds while managing to eschewing legalism as well as refraining from giving us a deluge of esoterica. Highly recommended!
I'm cool on either the Frim Fram sauce or the idol meat, as long as I get chafafa on the side. BTW, do you know the Diana Krall version of the song? Saw her do it live in the '90s in Trio format just like Mr. Nat Cole did it. She kills on the keys just like he did.
Thanks for your posts. Good stuff!