Rev. Dave Kowaleski's Blog
" Dining on the Word"
In Jesus' ministry we see times when even he found it necessary to get away for a period of rest and refreshment. Many times he would go to a place away from the crowds and distractions. If this were important for Jesus it is something we too need to do for our health and well being.
One of the places I go to get away from the crowds and distractions is the kitchen. Not to eat, but to pull out a favorite recipe. I find that when I start measuring and reading the directions I can put all else aside, concentrate on what I'm preparing and end up with a creative and fulfilling result.
In thinking about this article, I thought of taking all of this a step further. For the course of this year and into next, I will be sharing some of my favorite recipes and looking at them from a biblical perspective. The title of this series will be "Dining on the Word." I hope that this will offer something different but meaningful to our journey of faith. Remember, some of Jesus' most effective ministry was centered around a meal.
January 2009
Today's recipe is one that I haven't tried yet. It was given to Sharon from Rose Hibinger. As I spied it on our kitchen counter, the list of ingredients caught my attention. It was clear that this was something new to add to my menu.
I always look forward to making something new. As we enter a new year, it too is exciting to anticipate what lies ahead. It's interesting what Isaiah has to say about new things. In Isaiah 43:19-20, God says, "Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing..." God is in the process of restoring his people. He's not saying the past isn't important, but he is saying that in spite of what the people had gone through, God was going to redeem them. In that process we see many things deemed "new." Ezekiel talks of God providing the people a "new spirit" and a "new heart." In Revelation 21:5, we see God saying, "Behold, I make all things new." God is in the business of "new." This isn't only for the people of Israel as it is also a message and reality for us. God's desire is to do something new.
When we enter a new year we have an opportunity to anticipate what "new thing" God may have prepared for us. Don't miss what God may have in store for you, it could be the recipe of a lifetime.
Italian Sausage Soup
1 lb. Italian ground sausage 1 cup water (can use a little less if desired)
1 medium onion (diced) 2 oz. pepperoni - cut in small pieces
2 cans Italian stewed tomatoes 1 1/2 cups cooked elbow macaroni
1 can beef broth
Brown meat and onions and add everything but pasta. Cook for 15 minutes. Add drained cooked pasta and cook for another 15 minutes. If desired, add some drained canned corn.
