A Perfect Plate

In a recent episode of a cooking show that features children who are amazing chefs, I saw some interesting principles. All of the young contestants had access to fresh and nutritious ingredients. How these are put together determines the final product that is presented to the judges. Dishes must be cooked properly. An undercooked or overcooked meal can lose all of its appeal to a diner. In addition to proper cooking techniques chefs must know how to properly season their dishes. In addition to the preparation, how the creation is placed on the plate for presentation is extremely important.

The challenge of this particular episode of the show was to bake a citrus cream pie. Some of the pies that came before the judges looked extremely beautiful. Closer inspection revealed that the pies had not been cooked properly. The dough was undercooked or there was the wrong proportions of cream filling to topping. Still others were cooked fine but had not been seasoned well. They were too sweet without enough of the citrus flavor. Although there pies looked beautiful, the tasting was less than anticipated.

Pressed for time one young chef had become a bit careless in the placement of a garnish of raspberries on top of the pie.  When the judge questioned him about the less than beautiful topping, the young man said that it was “not that important.” The judge was surprised and corrected the young man. The tastiest dessert can be ruined by its appearance. Presentation is extremely important. It can be the difference between a diner choosing to try the delectable treat or pass it by.

These principles of cooking and baking can also apply to our presentation of the gospel. The gospel, which is the basis for everything we share, is fresh and nutritious. Despite the fact that these words were written down thousands of years ago, God’s word is still alive and pertinent today. “For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective];” (Hebrews 4:12a AMP) We all have access to its life-giving wisdom and power. How we present this word to others can make a real difference.

First of all we must be prepared to share God’s word when opportunities arise. This preparation requires that we spend time studying the Bible. “Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 AMP) By spending time learning the word of God and listening to the Holy Spirit, we will be ready to share the word with those we encounter. The more we study, the more perfect our preparation will become.

We are also to season all of our conversation with the word of God. “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste (its strength, its quality), how can its saltiness be restored?” (Matthew 5:13a AMP) Like using salt, sugar or any other spice, the choice and proper amount is always important. Using salt in place of sugar or vice versa leads to a disastrous meal. Likewise, simply spouting scriptures without considering the listener, can have less then desirable outcomes. Listening to the Holy Spirit, we will know which Scripture, how much or how little to share at any given time.

The final criteria of a great dish is presentation. How we present the love and compassion of God through His son Jesus Christ is critical. We do not need to worry about what we will say when opportunities arise. “For the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour and moment what [you] ought to say.” (Luke 12:12 AMP) The Holy Spirit knows everything about the people we will encounter. He will orchestrate conversations and give us wisdom and the proper words to speak. We can share all aspects of God and His word. We do not ever want to water down the truth found in the Bible. The Holy Spirit will instruct us how to present truth in a manner in which it will be received and provide nourishment to the hearer. All need to hear of our wonderful God. Then they can, “… taste and see that the Lord [our God] is good! Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who trusts and takes refuge in Him.” (Psalm 34:8 AMP)

So study up, listen up (to the Holy Spirit) and serve up the gospel to those you encounter today. The word you give may be a light appetizer, a full main course or a dessert of the sweetness of God’s love. Allow God to use you to present His love to a hungry world that is unaware of the feast He has prepared for them.