Grandma Spade's Oyster Casserole
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
“Good Rutherford once said, ‘I have tasted of Christ’s own manna, and it has put my mouth out of taste for the brown bread of this world’s joys.’” – C.H. Spurgeon
I can’t remember if Deanna and I were still dating or newly married but in either case, I very much wanted to make a good impression on her family. And so, when her mother’s side of the family held a potluck dinner at her house, I made sure to fill my plate with a variety of homemade goodies. After all, the last thing you want to do is insult a cook by passing over their specialty!
When I arrived at a dish that looked just like au gratin potatoes, I ladled a heaping portion on my plate and prepared to dive right in. However, when I put the first spoonful in my mouth, I quickly realized that it wasn’t a baked potato and cheese dish after all.
“How do you like my grandmother’s oyster casserole?” Deanna asked me after I had taken my first bite.
What I wanted to say is that it was the worst tasting thing I had ever put into my mouth. But not wanting to hurt anyone’s feelings, I mumbled something unintelligible and then swallowed it without chewing. The problem was that I still had half a plateful of oyster casserole left to eat. I tried to force down a few more bites but eventually, I had to admit defeat and look for the nearest trash can.
I guess that is how Samuel Rutherford, a 17th century Scottish pastor and theologian, felt when – after sampling the sustenance that comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ – he was offered the plain “brown bread” that this fallen world offers. Rutherford’s “spiritual taste buds” had been so spoiled by dining on heavenly fare that he could barely stomach the carnal delights that he once fancied.
My friend, I pray that having “tasted and seen that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8), you will settle for nothing less than Christ’s own manna. Remember, you are what you eat!
“This is the bread that came down from heaven. Unlike your fathers, who ate the manna and died, the one who eats this bread will live forever.” John 6:58 (BSB)
- Rev. Dale M. Glading, President
