The Spice In Life!

Kevin and I were having a conversation recently about some friends of ours. We were reminiscing about how much fun we had with them and how we enjoyed their company. I am ashamed of my next comment. I said to Kevin,"Isn't it interesting how they are both really intelligent, they are so funny, and they have also had some great experiences. It surprised me..." <*ugh*>

It surprised me because neither one of them wears the latest fashions, they live in an average home, they drive average cars, they both have some odd mannerisms, and their not real attractive." <*sigh*>

I realize how prideful this statement sounds. It bothers me that I have this point of view. However, I think God really used this ugly thought to humble and enlighten me. At that moment my conversation with Kevin began to change.

He said, "You are right, on the surface, there is nothing really special about them. They are not the perfect image. It's kind of like fresh baked cookies. When I was little I hated when the cookies got a little too brown around the edges. However, my dad loved them. He said, that the burnt edge added flavor."

Isn't that the way people are, they may not have that beautiful surface image going on, but when you take the time to know them they have all the flavor. They are the spice of life!

Think about spices, like cinnamon. If you were to eat a spoonful of cinnamon it would be bitter and icky. But if that spice is added to just the right ingredients something marvelous can be created like pumpkin pie, cinnamon dolce latte, or a hot sweet cinnamon roll.

1 Peter 5 says this:

1-3 I have a special concern for you church leaders. I know what it's like to be a leader, in on Christ's sufferings as well as the coming glory. Here's my concern: that you care for God's flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to, but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously. Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way.
4-5When God, who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with his rule, he'll see that you've done it right and commend you lavishly. And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for— God has had it with the proud, But takes delight in just plain people.
6-7So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you; he'll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you.

Kevin and I ended our conversation with this thought. There are people out there who never mature and sample only what they see as the best, they only eat the perfect cookies.

Then there are those who take a chance and try the burnt cookies with all the flavor. But they don't stop there, they savor the essence of life. They experience friendships with what appears to be just plain people but really they are the spices in life! They are the ones in which God takes delight. Therefore I encourage each of you, "be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you;...Live carefree before God...." delight in the essence of life!