Surely, I am not the only one who is tired of the “charcuterie” phase in which we find ourselves. If you do not know how to pronounce this word, consider yourself blessed and of good fortune. I have several issues with the charcuterie board.
First, the things which are typically placed upon it rarely constitute a real meal – cheese cubes, small rounds of meat, and olives are not a meal, at least not in the South. This is an appetizer.
Secondly, hands touching food that will be consumed by others is a real possibility.
Third, food items falling off the board is also probable. How is this practical? Whatever happened to serving bowls and trays?
The other day, I saw a picture of a “chili” charcuterie board, where all manner of toppings for chili were on display, including corn. What are people supposed to do- scoop up the corn with their bare hands? I assure you, my friends, if you come to my house, I will always serve you corn in a proper bowl with a serving spoon.
To sum it up, to me, the charcuterie board is attractive, but mostly for show and without much substance.
Hmm – mostly for show and without much substance. I have to wonder, as I think about our culture, and our attitudes in the modern Church, could the same be said for us? Ouch. Do we take the teachings and admonitions of Jesus seriously, or do we gather for our “feel-good” appetizer, and never move on to the main course? Have we settled, as Bonhoffer said, for “cheap grace,” that never requires more of us than a trip down the aisle? Do we merely nibble at the truth, but ignore the “whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27)?
Do we hold to a form of godliness, but deny its power? Are we always learning but never able to come to the knowledge of the truth? (2nd Timothy 3). Is there a way that seems right, loving, even trendy, but its end is really death? (Proverbs 14:12).
Has self-care replaced discipleship, and personal happiness replaced joy in service to others?
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me” (Matthew 25:35-36).
“Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me” (Matthew 25:40).
Don’t settle for an appetizer, for only part of the truth. Dig in; come ready with your serving bowl and your big spoon. Listen for all he has to say to you and then be willing to speak and to serve it to others. Because the world sure needs the only real food that satisfies.
Written by: Michelle Dowdy
Life By The Way 