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Rev. Dave's Blog: Dining On The Word
Trinity United
Methodist Church
Orrville, Ohio
Open Heart. Open Minds. Open Doors.
Rev. Dave Kowaleski's Blog
Rev. Dave Kowaleski shares a monthly word of inspiration for the congregation. This is an archive of past articles. To see the most recent blog entry, CLICK HERE.
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.
Today's offering is Parmesan Potatoes. It's a simple recipe for a great side dish to complement just about any meal. And, it's one that ALL of our children love. Sometimes it's too bad that main dishes take away the focus of how good other elements of a meal can be. It even happens to people. Andrew, a disciple of Jesus was like that. In some ways he lived in the shadow of his brother as we constantly see him identified as Andrew, Simon Peters brother. And yet he played a key role as a disciple. It was Andrew that understood the importance of bringing others into Jesus' presence as he did with his brother (John 1:40-42) and the lad with the fish and loaves that were used to feed the multitude (John 6:8).
We too play an important role in inviting others. How many of us participate in worship and church activities through an invitation from or connection with family, friends or acquaintances? This has always been a key ingredient to the vitality and growth of individuals and the church body. Sometimes we may feel we live in the shadows of church life searching for our place and how best we can be used. A simple invitation could make all the difference in the world in our life and the life of someone else. Andrew discovered something he wanted to share with others in Jesus' presence. And even though the church is imperfect in human hands, even in the imperfections, we're in the presence of Christ.
Maybe that's why Paul reminds us in Hebrews 10:24-25, "...let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together..." Let's not neglect inviting others into the presence of Christ to feast on his grace, love and forgiveness.
Parmesan Potatoes
2 potatoes quartered lengthwise Seasoned salt (to taste)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese Garlic salt (to taste)
1 Tbs flour Dash of pepper
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix all the dry ingredients in a shaker bag.
Add potatoes to bag and shake well. Let stand for several minutes.
Lightly coat bottom of baking dish with olive or vegetable oil. Place coated potato wedges in baking dish and bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
Turn wedges over and bake another 20 minutes or until golden brown
