Thanks for the suggestions for our "Hot Topics" series. However, I still need more...so hit "reply" and suggest a topic before it's too late!
While I was driving down to Bracken, last week, I enjoyed a bag of pumpkin seeds that I purchased at the Gull Lake CO-OP.

When I was living in the Philippines, back in the 80's, I liked to consume watermelon seeds. And, yes, I always enjoy sunflower seeds which are a great, caffeine free, way to stay awake while driving. However, the thought crossed my mind: who was the first person to eat these things? Now, if you have ever cleaned out a pumpkin, then you will probably be wondering the same thing. The seeds are slimy and the stringy pulp that they are found in looks like something from an alien's intestines. Nevertheless, someone, somewhere, looked at those seeds and said, "I wonder if I can eat those"? Someone else ate the first oyster. Yet another person ate the first egg (just think.... where did that come out of?). I thank those gastronomic pioneers. Without them we wouldn't have the grand variety of food that we do today.
Someone else, though, tried all those
other plants that actually kill you. Who tested the first poisonous mushroom? Well... we don't know because they died. But even that person needs to be thanked...so that we know what NOT to eat!
As Christians, we are called to be risk takers (see the
youtube.com video below) and attempt things for the sake of the kingdom. Many of our fellow Christians have blazed trails for us, through dangerous territory, spreading the good news. However, we all have areas in our own worlds that need us to step out and attempt things for the Kingdom. Perhaps you are the only Christ follower that your friend/co-worker/relative/neighbour will ever know? So...step out and taste and see that the Lord is good...and share that good flavour with others! Oh, just be careful of the mushrooms.
Joell
Even Antarctica has an area code. It s 672.