May 01, 2011

Unfailing Love

Psalm 36:7-9

People … feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights.
Psalm 36:7-8

— 

When I came from Russia to the United States as a college student, I was surprised to hear so many questions about my native Russian cuisine. “Why would anyone care?” I wondered while describing our borscht and potato-and-meat salads. Then someone explained to me, “This way we learn more about your culture and you!”

Throughout history, food has played a critical part in shaping and defining our cultures. In fact, human civilizations as we know them place a lot of emphasis on harvesting, cooking, and preserving food. So it’s always helpful to find out about other people’s cuisine when we are getting to know them and their way of life.

Some people are surprised to find that the Bible is filled with food-related references and images. It talks of rich harvests and famines, of exotic dishes and special wines, of joyful feasts and somber meals. It’s not a cookbook, but all these things help us learn more about God and his kingdom.

Today’s verses talk about the Lord as our ultimate refuge and source of goodness. In his unfailing love, God provides us with food, water, and shelter. All good things are his gifts.

Do you know the Giver as well as his gifts? Are you secure in his protection? Are you drinking from his fountain of life?

Lord, we praise you for your unfailing love and protection. Thank you for giving us food, water, and shelter to meet our daily needs. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

About the author — Sergei Sosedkin

Rev. Sergei Sosedkin is the Russian-language ministry leader for ReFrame Ministries. He is a native of Moscow, Russia. As he oversees the Russian-language ministry, Rev. Sosedkin works from our office in Grand Rapids and in various locations in Russia.

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