And I'm mostly blind. This because I had an eye exam with full pupil dilation just before noon, and without two pairs of very dark shades on, I am literally "Blinded By The Light", as Mannfred Mann and his Earth Band said in song about 40 years ago. I write this missive wearing both prescription glasses and the ultra-cool dark green plastic sun blockers that you can only get from your optometrist.
BUT WAIT! This pair of once worn, slightly bent, unscratched Opto Shields can be yours for the low low price of only three easy payments of $79.99 (plus shipping and handling).
Buy that and I'll throw in the Golden Gate for free.
Good news on the optic front: my diabetes has not found its way into my eyes. In fact, my new prescription is improved over the one from 18 months ago. Now I just have to find a seriously stylish frame in which to house the new prescription lenses.
I've been canning a lot. About 40 pints or so of Salsa. I've given some away, have more to give away, but also have about 14 or so pints yet to can. I actually tasted some yesterday with fresh tortilla chips. It reminded me of why people look forward to getting my salsa. I'm good!
Other canning is going to include pasta sauce (eh... no big deal) and my Killer 'Za Sauce. My pizza sauce that has a great bite to it and everyone seems to love. Fortunately, I just do that sauce in half pint jars, so I can do a whole bunch at a time. I bought a very large stainless steel canner several years ago. It will probably be listed in the will.
Do not ask for these recipes. The best took me about 5 years to develop. So unless you're offering a multi-million dollar cookbook deal and a Food Network show, Sadie's not interested. (She's my agent now.)
Other than that, 'maters are doing great, we don't have the cucumber issue that Grace has (Grace - donate what you don't want to a food bank!)and Olathe sweet corn is on the menu for supper.
Eat well, live well, and do well.
Much love,
Jay
Monday, August 17, 2009
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Well whatever
Been a while since I posted.
Been a while since I thought I had anything purposeful to say.
I hate IE 8. Mozilla is my bud,,,
Been a while since I thought I had anything purposeful to say.
I hate IE 8. Mozilla is my bud,,,
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Blogging... About Blogging
I'm starting to wonder if I want to keep this up. For the most part, my entries are pretty neutral, as I told Justin. To wit:
“I’ve been writing personal essays for about 35 years now. I’ve been doing Biblical research for about as long. With Ma being a Library Science major and an elementary school librarian, and Dad building an award winning library at Dike Elementary, I pretty much knew research and the Dewey Decimal System by the time I was 11 or 12. Research for various college papers was a snap for me. And one English professor at ISU finally let me write pretty much the same way I talked. Grammatically incorrect, using idioms, starting sentences with “And”. My blog entries are sometimes whimsical, sometimes a response to a Biblical question, and sometimes they’re just chronicling events in the literary form of a personal essay."
Don’t get me wrong – I do know grammar very well.
Malcolm Price Elementary Laboratory School, which I attended through 4th Grade and as noted by my sisters regarding 4th Grade memories, taught us to think and reason at a much younger age than most schools. That probably also had something to do with shaping both my writing and research skills.
I’m starting to question how communication in our society works and whether the current state of it is good. Technology is advancing at an incredible pace. For instance, my cell phone, purchased 5 months ago, was absolutely state of the art with its touch screen and access to various content (TV, movies, music) and relatively large screen. It’s now considered “last generation” technology. But it’s very good for text messaging – and the messages I compose actually use full words and punctuation. Why? IDK…
Even the pace of the spoken word has increased. In talking to my kids or my nieces & nephews, I often have to tell them to slow down. Not because I’m dumb, but because the twenty-somethings of the world have learned to communicate (speak and hear) at a much faster pace.
Twitter is something I don’t get. A micro-blog. Every 15 minutes or so, “Tweet something about what you’re doing, why, what your opinion is on just about any subject (i.e. “I don’t like over-cooked asparagus.”). Seems to be the object behind this technology that “we can’t live without”. My question is: Why? I’m living without it just fine.
Blogs are becoming the same thing. I know if someone has read mine when they leave a comment, which in general, like Twitter, is very short. If nobody leaves a comment, I just assume that a particular entry didn’t compel a reader to engage in conversation. Or just ignored it. No problem. Just like it probably doesn’t keep an author like Norah Roberts or Sue Grafton awake at night knowing that I haven’t read every one of their books.
Email is already going the same way of snail mail.
I’ve run into folks who, when I ask them to just send me an email, say, “Oh just check my blog.” Question: When did it become my responsibility to track down info and keep up with the information of others instead of them sending me the information they want me to know via email? Or snail mail for that matter. Geez – even our language is changing to accommodate this!
“Snail mail.”
“Blog – from weB LOG”
“Texting” (or worse, “sexting”)
“Google this…”
“IM me.”
“Tweet us at… “
It ain’t that long ago that my ramblings known as the Beemer Report were sent via the United States Postal Service, required a stamp, and you actually had to open an envelope and hold some paper while you read it. Your mailbox outside of your home actually contained something more than bills, solicitations and junk mail.
“Oh but we’re too busy for that these days.”
Then I’d say it’s about time to put on your boots and do something like sit on a precipice out in Rabbit Valley, watch the Dolores River roll by while enjoying some iced tea, and let a collared lizard sit on your boot and check you out. Been there, done that, and that lizard and I both knew the other wasn’t there to hurt the other.
I may just have to become an anachronism by reverting to just email and the USPS. Wouldn’t be a first. After all, it was less than two weeks ago that I shaved with a straight razor. Something I think only a few of my generation would know how to do, and even less of my sons’ generation.
But it still works. Just don’t try doing that and texting at the same time.
“I’ve been writing personal essays for about 35 years now. I’ve been doing Biblical research for about as long. With Ma being a Library Science major and an elementary school librarian, and Dad building an award winning library at Dike Elementary, I pretty much knew research and the Dewey Decimal System by the time I was 11 or 12. Research for various college papers was a snap for me. And one English professor at ISU finally let me write pretty much the same way I talked. Grammatically incorrect, using idioms, starting sentences with “And”. My blog entries are sometimes whimsical, sometimes a response to a Biblical question, and sometimes they’re just chronicling events in the literary form of a personal essay."
Don’t get me wrong – I do know grammar very well.
Malcolm Price Elementary Laboratory School, which I attended through 4th Grade and as noted by my sisters regarding 4th Grade memories, taught us to think and reason at a much younger age than most schools. That probably also had something to do with shaping both my writing and research skills.
I’m starting to question how communication in our society works and whether the current state of it is good. Technology is advancing at an incredible pace. For instance, my cell phone, purchased 5 months ago, was absolutely state of the art with its touch screen and access to various content (TV, movies, music) and relatively large screen. It’s now considered “last generation” technology. But it’s very good for text messaging – and the messages I compose actually use full words and punctuation. Why? IDK…
Even the pace of the spoken word has increased. In talking to my kids or my nieces & nephews, I often have to tell them to slow down. Not because I’m dumb, but because the twenty-somethings of the world have learned to communicate (speak and hear) at a much faster pace.
Twitter is something I don’t get. A micro-blog. Every 15 minutes or so, “Tweet something about what you’re doing, why, what your opinion is on just about any subject (i.e. “I don’t like over-cooked asparagus.”). Seems to be the object behind this technology that “we can’t live without”. My question is: Why? I’m living without it just fine.
Blogs are becoming the same thing. I know if someone has read mine when they leave a comment, which in general, like Twitter, is very short. If nobody leaves a comment, I just assume that a particular entry didn’t compel a reader to engage in conversation. Or just ignored it. No problem. Just like it probably doesn’t keep an author like Norah Roberts or Sue Grafton awake at night knowing that I haven’t read every one of their books.
Email is already going the same way of snail mail.
I’ve run into folks who, when I ask them to just send me an email, say, “Oh just check my blog.” Question: When did it become my responsibility to track down info and keep up with the information of others instead of them sending me the information they want me to know via email? Or snail mail for that matter. Geez – even our language is changing to accommodate this!
“Snail mail.”
“Blog – from weB LOG”
“Texting” (or worse, “sexting”)
“Google this…”
“IM me.”
“Tweet us at… “
It ain’t that long ago that my ramblings known as the Beemer Report were sent via the United States Postal Service, required a stamp, and you actually had to open an envelope and hold some paper while you read it. Your mailbox outside of your home actually contained something more than bills, solicitations and junk mail.
“Oh but we’re too busy for that these days.”
Then I’d say it’s about time to put on your boots and do something like sit on a precipice out in Rabbit Valley, watch the Dolores River roll by while enjoying some iced tea, and let a collared lizard sit on your boot and check you out. Been there, done that, and that lizard and I both knew the other wasn’t there to hurt the other.
I may just have to become an anachronism by reverting to just email and the USPS. Wouldn’t be a first. After all, it was less than two weeks ago that I shaved with a straight razor. Something I think only a few of my generation would know how to do, and even less of my sons’ generation.
But it still works. Just don’t try doing that and texting at the same time.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
The One About...
A television reference this time instead of music. We all remember “Friends”. Each episode was titled “The One About…” or “The One Where…”
Well, this blog post is the one about being a new grandpa.
At age 53, I actually was hesitant about being a grandparent. A mite too young, is what I thought. Norah had other plans for me. So sitting on the patio and thinking about this, I had to remind myself:
- All my sisters were younger than I am now when they became grandparents.
- Dad was about my age when he became a grandpa – Ma was younger than I am now.
All is relative – in both definitions of the word. MA!!! I hope to live to know 6 great-grandkids as you have. Sharing history and heritage cannot begin early enough (I’ve already told Norah a few stories while settling her into sleep).
I told my friend Dr. Dan – who is not yet a grandparent – “I can only say that you will melt and instantly love being a grandpa when you first hold that little one.”
One of Norah’s pictures – “SnuggleSaurus” – is now my computer wallpaper. And I absolutely love looking at the pic of TLMK holding Norah under Ma’s quilt. Norah looks tiny (c’mon – she was only three days old!), the quilt looks ginormous (which it actually is not) and the black & white challenge fabrics we sent to Ma are outstanding when Ma added the red fabric for contrast.
Already thinking about the timing and planning of our next trip out to The Shire. Maybe Thanksgiving…
So – in general, I love being a grandpa. And I’m being called Grandpa Kole now.
Marshall told me I had some pretty big shoes to fill with that moniker.
Trust me, son… I am well aware of that.
Well, this blog post is the one about being a new grandpa.
At age 53, I actually was hesitant about being a grandparent. A mite too young, is what I thought. Norah had other plans for me. So sitting on the patio and thinking about this, I had to remind myself:
- All my sisters were younger than I am now when they became grandparents.
- Dad was about my age when he became a grandpa – Ma was younger than I am now.
All is relative – in both definitions of the word. MA!!! I hope to live to know 6 great-grandkids as you have. Sharing history and heritage cannot begin early enough (I’ve already told Norah a few stories while settling her into sleep).
I told my friend Dr. Dan – who is not yet a grandparent – “I can only say that you will melt and instantly love being a grandpa when you first hold that little one.”
One of Norah’s pictures – “SnuggleSaurus” – is now my computer wallpaper. And I absolutely love looking at the pic of TLMK holding Norah under Ma’s quilt. Norah looks tiny (c’mon – she was only three days old!), the quilt looks ginormous (which it actually is not) and the black & white challenge fabrics we sent to Ma are outstanding when Ma added the red fabric for contrast.
Already thinking about the timing and planning of our next trip out to The Shire. Maybe Thanksgiving…
So – in general, I love being a grandpa. And I’m being called Grandpa Kole now.
Marshall told me I had some pretty big shoes to fill with that moniker.
Trust me, son… I am well aware of that.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Hiccups
I hate 'em.
It’s an exasperating thing. Every 12 to 17 seconds or so your body shakes violently. You go to sleep and then wake up with them again. But it takes a while to get to sleep, and the entire bed and subsequently, your spouse, is subjected to the aforementioned shaking.
And it’s especially bothersome and a complete pain in the patoot when this goes on for up to three days at a time.
No, I’m not going to wear an oxygen mask to bed. Been there, done that, would prefer to never do it again. Too much experience with that. Admittedly, some of it life-saving, but none of it pleasant.
I write about hiccups after having visiting our beautiful grand-daughter Norah, whom, as Marshall has stated seems to get the hiccups constantly. Marshall has mastered the “football hold”, which helps to both calm her when she’s fussy, and seems to have some effect in relieving the hiccups. There are actual medical reasons for this hold, but I know it still freaks out some people when they see a new parent - and for some inexplicable reason, especially a father – hold a very fresh baby this way. Hey – if the doc says it’s a good thing, I’ll go with the medical opinion and ignore public opinion.
Meanwhile, Norah continues to possibly be the most beautiful baby in the world. Both my shoulder and my elbow are missing her being there. Grandma Wiley, enjoy every minute you can holding her!
Much love,
Jay (aka Grandpa Kole)
It’s an exasperating thing. Every 12 to 17 seconds or so your body shakes violently. You go to sleep and then wake up with them again. But it takes a while to get to sleep, and the entire bed and subsequently, your spouse, is subjected to the aforementioned shaking.
And it’s especially bothersome and a complete pain in the patoot when this goes on for up to three days at a time.
No, I’m not going to wear an oxygen mask to bed. Been there, done that, would prefer to never do it again. Too much experience with that. Admittedly, some of it life-saving, but none of it pleasant.
I write about hiccups after having visiting our beautiful grand-daughter Norah, whom, as Marshall has stated seems to get the hiccups constantly. Marshall has mastered the “football hold”, which helps to both calm her when she’s fussy, and seems to have some effect in relieving the hiccups. There are actual medical reasons for this hold, but I know it still freaks out some people when they see a new parent - and for some inexplicable reason, especially a father – hold a very fresh baby this way. Hey – if the doc says it’s a good thing, I’ll go with the medical opinion and ignore public opinion.
Meanwhile, Norah continues to possibly be the most beautiful baby in the world. Both my shoulder and my elbow are missing her being there. Grandma Wiley, enjoy every minute you can holding her!
Much love,
Jay (aka Grandpa Kole)
The Circle Trip
Well, that’s what our travel agent called it. We didn’t just do a round trip (from this city back to this city). Instead, we did this:
Cab from home to Walker Field (GJ airport)
GJ to Denver
Denver to Chicago O’Hare
Rental car – very cool Dodge Charger SXT with the high output Hemi – it go fast! - to hotel.
3 nights in Chicago
Chicago to Boston – Logan Int’l
Cab from Logan Int’l to AMTRAK station
AMTRAK from Boston to Durham, NH
Approximately 36 hours in The Shire – lots of holding & snuggling Norah
AMTRAK from Durham, NH to Boston
Cab from AMTRAK station to Logan Int’l
Boston to Dulles Int’l, DC
Cab to hotel – 4 nights
Cab from hotel back to Dulles Int’l
Dulles to DIA
DIA to GJ
Cab from GJ to home
I can only say that given that convoluted itinerary, our travel agent worked wonders and got us an incredible deal all the way through. We even got upgraded for our hotel room to a King suite! Probably helped that I stood all of 6’3” while the gal checking us in was about five-foot-nothing. We made it clear that a double-double would just not work.
Tons of memories…
Grace getting her Master’s degree. With 4 honor cords and two honor pins on her gown. We are proud of her. A moving ceremony, with speeches about committing to a life of public service when they could go out and make 3 or 4 times the money in the private sector. “Go do good – and do it well” was the charge given to this graduating class. I have to modify my morning send-off to TLMK now. Although she’s always done it well and as I think of it, would be a great mentor.
It was especially wonderful that Dallas and Renee were there to help celebrate the occasion. And that they got to attend both Grace’s and Marcus’ graduations in the same weekend! BONUS!
Jak’s Tap was a wonderful place to celebrate and as Renee said, share fellowship. The food was spectacular – I had a Reuben sandwich which was close to the size of my head. Dallas took on the “Truck Stop” sandwich. A huge bun, on which is placed a monster deep fried pork tenderloin, atop which is placed all the sides – onion rings, slaw, pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato… I’ll give Dallas his due. He did his best, but about the same time I threw up my hands and said “Surrender!” so did he. But we both gave it our best effort.
And then on to New Hampshire…
Marsh picked us up from the train station, dropped us at our hotel, then brought us to their apartment. Little Norah was lying on her back on the couch, just snoozin’. We just stood there and looked at her – she almost looked like a doll laying on the couch.
Then Sarah said “you can pick her up – you can hold her.” I think it was about a half second between when Sarah said that and Norah was in Jody’s arms.
Eventually, I got to hold my grand-daughter. For several hours. Seems she’s a perfect fit, Just exactly right between the wrist and elbow of my left arm. And you rub (pet) her face on her left cheek and she does a perfect Elvis sneer/smile. This is gonna be one very cool kid.
The Shire – cool place. I now understand Marshall’s earlier comment that the town wouldn’t be there if the university wasn’t there. We went to Mass on Sunday, then spent some time exploring. All 2 blocks of Main Street. Picked up some UNH shirts and stuff, bought some flowers for Sarah’s first Mother’s Day, and then walked to their place. Good weather, nice walk.
Marsh and I went to do some grocery shopping, then back to their place to spoil Norah some more. Made a couple of pizzas for supper – one margherita (white pizza) and one pepperoni and can ban. I believe we made Sarah a fan of white pizza. Some garlic infused EVOO, Parmaggiano cheese, Roma tomatoes, fresh basil and a sprinkling of mozzarella…
Molto belle!
Did I mention that I have a gorgeous grand-daughter?
DC was DC. Jody busy, me riding the Metro and walking a bunch. More about that later. For now, this post is long enough.
Much love,
Jay
Cab from home to Walker Field (GJ airport)
GJ to Denver
Denver to Chicago O’Hare
Rental car – very cool Dodge Charger SXT with the high output Hemi – it go fast! - to hotel.
3 nights in Chicago
Chicago to Boston – Logan Int’l
Cab from Logan Int’l to AMTRAK station
AMTRAK from Boston to Durham, NH
Approximately 36 hours in The Shire – lots of holding & snuggling Norah
AMTRAK from Durham, NH to Boston
Cab from AMTRAK station to Logan Int’l
Boston to Dulles Int’l, DC
Cab to hotel – 4 nights
Cab from hotel back to Dulles Int’l
Dulles to DIA
DIA to GJ
Cab from GJ to home
I can only say that given that convoluted itinerary, our travel agent worked wonders and got us an incredible deal all the way through. We even got upgraded for our hotel room to a King suite! Probably helped that I stood all of 6’3” while the gal checking us in was about five-foot-nothing. We made it clear that a double-double would just not work.
Tons of memories…
Grace getting her Master’s degree. With 4 honor cords and two honor pins on her gown. We are proud of her. A moving ceremony, with speeches about committing to a life of public service when they could go out and make 3 or 4 times the money in the private sector. “Go do good – and do it well” was the charge given to this graduating class. I have to modify my morning send-off to TLMK now. Although she’s always done it well and as I think of it, would be a great mentor.
It was especially wonderful that Dallas and Renee were there to help celebrate the occasion. And that they got to attend both Grace’s and Marcus’ graduations in the same weekend! BONUS!
Jak’s Tap was a wonderful place to celebrate and as Renee said, share fellowship. The food was spectacular – I had a Reuben sandwich which was close to the size of my head. Dallas took on the “Truck Stop” sandwich. A huge bun, on which is placed a monster deep fried pork tenderloin, atop which is placed all the sides – onion rings, slaw, pickles, onions, lettuce, tomato… I’ll give Dallas his due. He did his best, but about the same time I threw up my hands and said “Surrender!” so did he. But we both gave it our best effort.
And then on to New Hampshire…
Marsh picked us up from the train station, dropped us at our hotel, then brought us to their apartment. Little Norah was lying on her back on the couch, just snoozin’. We just stood there and looked at her – she almost looked like a doll laying on the couch.
Then Sarah said “you can pick her up – you can hold her.” I think it was about a half second between when Sarah said that and Norah was in Jody’s arms.
Eventually, I got to hold my grand-daughter. For several hours. Seems she’s a perfect fit, Just exactly right between the wrist and elbow of my left arm. And you rub (pet) her face on her left cheek and she does a perfect Elvis sneer/smile. This is gonna be one very cool kid.
The Shire – cool place. I now understand Marshall’s earlier comment that the town wouldn’t be there if the university wasn’t there. We went to Mass on Sunday, then spent some time exploring. All 2 blocks of Main Street. Picked up some UNH shirts and stuff, bought some flowers for Sarah’s first Mother’s Day, and then walked to their place. Good weather, nice walk.
Marsh and I went to do some grocery shopping, then back to their place to spoil Norah some more. Made a couple of pizzas for supper – one margherita (white pizza) and one pepperoni and can ban. I believe we made Sarah a fan of white pizza. Some garlic infused EVOO, Parmaggiano cheese, Roma tomatoes, fresh basil and a sprinkling of mozzarella…
Molto belle!
Did I mention that I have a gorgeous grand-daughter?
DC was DC. Jody busy, me riding the Metro and walking a bunch. More about that later. For now, this post is long enough.
Much love,
Jay
Monday, April 27, 2009
Meals (Without Wheels)
I don't expect to get a lot of responses to this entry. Seems folks like to read Scriptural analysis but don't like to discuss it much. Some are even offended by it. Well, it's my blog and I'll post what I want. It's a long post. A bit scholarly. Heavy with Biblical references to the Book of Luke. So here you go. Jay
----------------------------
No song reference. But a long email with lots of Scriptural cites.
It’s no secret that I occasionally like to cook (ok, you can roll your eyes here), that I enjoy preparing a feast for a lot of people, and in general find the process of combining ingredients to create something that nearly all of our guests will appreciate, enjoy, and remember, to be something which enriches my soul. The latest incarnation of that experience was being me bringing a casserole to Joyce, our neighbor to the west, who lost her husband this past week. In return, she delivered a very lovely thank you card telling us we were such good neighbors. I just passed it off like any Iowan would – “it’s just what we do.” Her family from Rockwell City understood when I said that.
Fr. Plough also enjoys this process of cooking for others, and even more, being a guest when invited to dinner. And his homily this past Sunday, based on the Gospel of Luke, reflected on all of the references to meals in which Jesus partook – either as host or guest.
I cannot doubt Fr. Plough, his curriculum vitae, his pastoral credentials, or his experience as both a Biblical scholar teaching in a seminary or as a parish priest. But I’m just one of those folks who wish to see/read/understand/verify for myself. Not a skeptic per se, but just someone who likes to see things for himself.
Fr. Plough talked about the 12 times (outside of The Lord’s Supper) in which Jesus was present for a meal in the Gospel of Luke. And then also delved into the reasons behind the meals/feasts. We share meals or hold feasts for several reasons; to celebrate (a wedding, a baptism, a confirmation, a graduation, a birthday…) to commiserate (a funeral luncheon, even though there’s probably a lot of laughter taking place), a solemnity (knowing this could be the last time one gets to break bread with someone), to share a common faith (which is what we do in the Eucharist every Sunday). I’ve been involved in all of those types of meals. For that matter, all of you reading this probably have, too. So let's get started...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The cites and the meaning behind the meals in the Gospel of Luke are as follows:
Luke 4:1-4 “1 And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan, and was led in the Spirit in the wilderness
2 during forty days, being tempted of the devil. And he did eat nothing in those days: and when they were completed, he hungered.
3 And the devil said unto him, if thou art the Son of God, command this stone that it become bread.
4 And Jesus answered unto him, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone.”
Jesus was tempted with food by Satan. He did not succumb.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Now it came to pass, while the multitude pressed upon him and heard the word of God, that he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret;
2 and he saw two boats standing by the lake: but the fishermen had gone out of them, and were washing their nets.
3 And he entered into one of the boats, which was Simon's, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the multitudes out of the boat.
4 And when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.
5 And Simon answered and said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing: but at thy word I will let down the nets.
6 And when they had done this, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes; and their nets were breaking;
7 and they beckoned unto their partners in the other boat, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
Jesus filled the fisherman’s nets so that a great multitude could be fed. (The particular cite got messed up and I couldn't find a fix for it. Guess you'll have to open your Bibles.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 4: 29-33: And Levi made him a great feast in his house: and there was a great multitude of publicans and of others that were sitting at meat with them.
30 And the Pharisees and their scribes murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with the publicans and sinners?
31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are in health have no need of a physician; but they that are sick.
32 I am not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.
33 And they said unto him, The disciples of John fast often, and make supplications; likewise also the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink.
Jesus dines with those perceived to be his enemies.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 5 : 1-11: “ 1 Now it came to pass, while the multitude pressed upon him and heard the word of God, that he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret;
2 and he saw two boats standing by the lake: but the fishermen had gone out of them, and were washing their nets.
3 And he entered into one of the boats, which was Simon's, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the multitudes out of the boat.
4 And when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.
5 And Simon answered and said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing: but at thy word I will let down the nets.
6 And when they had done this, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes; and their nets were breaking;
7 and they beckoned unto their partners in the other boat, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
8 But Simon Peter, when he saw it, fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
9 For he was amazed, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken;
10 and so were also James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.
11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left all, and followed him.
Jesus showed them he was the Son of God – and gave them a miracle.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 6: 1-5 Now it came to pass on a sabbath, that he was going through the grainfields; and his disciples plucked the ears, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands.
2 But certain of the Pharisees said, Why do ye that which it is not lawful to do on the sabbath day?
3 And Jesus answering them said, Have ye not read even this, what David did, when he was hungry, he, and they that were with him;
4 how he entered into the house of God, and took and ate the showbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat save for the priests alone?
5 And he said unto them, The Son of man is lord of the sabbath.
Jesus showed once again His credentials as the Son of God.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 7: 36-39 36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he entered into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat.
37 And behold, a woman who was in the city, a sinner; and when she knew that he was sitting at meat in the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster cruse of ointment,
38 and standing behind at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
39 Now when the Pharisee that had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have perceived who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him, that she is a sinner.
Christ showed that he felt himself not to be above any man, including a Pharisee, but willing to be the sacrificial lamb for all men.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Luke 9: 12-17 12 And the day began to wear away; and the twelve came, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages and country round about, and lodge, and get provisions: for we are here in a desert place.
13 But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, We have no more than five loaves and two fishes; except we should go and buy food for all this people.
14 For they were about five thousand men. And he said unto his disciples, Make them sit down in companies, about fifty each.
15 And they did so, and made them all sit down.
16 And he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake; and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude.
17 And they ate, and were all filled: and there was taken up that which remained over to them of broken pieces, twelve baskets.
Jesus feeds the 5,000 with only five loaves and two fishes.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 10: 3-8 3 Go your ways; behold, I send you forth as lambs in the midst of wolves.
4 Carry no purse, no wallet, no shoes; and salute no man on the way.
5 And into whatsoever house ye shall enter, first say, Peace be to this house.
6 And if a son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon him: but if not, it shall turn to you again.
7 And in that same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.
8 And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you:
Jesus was telling his disciples that they would be taken care of – be grateful for what you are given to eat.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 10: 29-37 29 But he, desiring to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbor?
30 Jesus made answer and said, A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho; and he fell among robbers, who both stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead.
31 And by chance a certain priest was going down that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.
32 And in like manner a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side.
33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he was moved with compassion,
34 and came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on them oil and wine; and he set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.
35 And on the morrow he took out two shillings, and gave them to the host, and said, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, I, when I come back again, will repay thee.
36 Which of these three, thinkest thou, proved neighbor unto him that fell among the robbers?
37 And he said, He that showed mercy on him. And Jesus said unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.
Jesus told his disciples through a parable to share what you have, including food, to those who are in need.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 10: 38-41 38 Now as they went on their way, he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at the Lord's feet, and heard his word.
40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving; and she came up to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister did leave me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
41 But the Lord answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art anxious and troubled about many things.
Christ told Martha that spiritual food was every bit as important as physical nourishment.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 11:5:8 5 And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say to him, Friend, lend me three loaves;
6 for a friend of mine is come to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him;
7 and he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee?
8 I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will arise and give him as many as he needeth.
Jesus reminds us that charity is important.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 12: 27-29 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they toil not, neither do they spin; yet I say unto you, Even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
28 But if God doth so clothe the grass in the field, which to-day is, and to-morrow is cast into the oven; how much more shall he clothe you, O ye of little faith?
29 And seek not ye what ye shall eat, and what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.
Simple translation: God’s got your back.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After that… well, The Lord’s Supper. Of which mountains of books have been written.
An apparent theme – a meal, sharing food, is a chance for fellowship. A sharing of faith. A sharing of experiences, of stories. Fellowship – in our shared faith, I am a fellow of Christ’s, just as you are. There’s a fine word to look up and know – fellowship.
One large difference between Fr. Plough and me – he doesn’t mind doing the dishes after the meal.
----------------------------
No song reference. But a long email with lots of Scriptural cites.
It’s no secret that I occasionally like to cook (ok, you can roll your eyes here), that I enjoy preparing a feast for a lot of people, and in general find the process of combining ingredients to create something that nearly all of our guests will appreciate, enjoy, and remember, to be something which enriches my soul. The latest incarnation of that experience was being me bringing a casserole to Joyce, our neighbor to the west, who lost her husband this past week. In return, she delivered a very lovely thank you card telling us we were such good neighbors. I just passed it off like any Iowan would – “it’s just what we do.” Her family from Rockwell City understood when I said that.
Fr. Plough also enjoys this process of cooking for others, and even more, being a guest when invited to dinner. And his homily this past Sunday, based on the Gospel of Luke, reflected on all of the references to meals in which Jesus partook – either as host or guest.
I cannot doubt Fr. Plough, his curriculum vitae, his pastoral credentials, or his experience as both a Biblical scholar teaching in a seminary or as a parish priest. But I’m just one of those folks who wish to see/read/understand/verify for myself. Not a skeptic per se, but just someone who likes to see things for himself.
Fr. Plough talked about the 12 times (outside of The Lord’s Supper) in which Jesus was present for a meal in the Gospel of Luke. And then also delved into the reasons behind the meals/feasts. We share meals or hold feasts for several reasons; to celebrate (a wedding, a baptism, a confirmation, a graduation, a birthday…) to commiserate (a funeral luncheon, even though there’s probably a lot of laughter taking place), a solemnity (knowing this could be the last time one gets to break bread with someone), to share a common faith (which is what we do in the Eucharist every Sunday). I’ve been involved in all of those types of meals. For that matter, all of you reading this probably have, too. So let's get started...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The cites and the meaning behind the meals in the Gospel of Luke are as follows:
Luke 4:1-4 “1 And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan, and was led in the Spirit in the wilderness
2 during forty days, being tempted of the devil. And he did eat nothing in those days: and when they were completed, he hungered.
3 And the devil said unto him, if thou art the Son of God, command this stone that it become bread.
4 And Jesus answered unto him, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone.”
Jesus was tempted with food by Satan. He did not succumb.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Now it came to pass, while the multitude pressed upon him and heard the word of God, that he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret;
2 and he saw two boats standing by the lake: but the fishermen had gone out of them, and were washing their nets.
3 And he entered into one of the boats, which was Simon's, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the multitudes out of the boat.
4 And when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.
5 And Simon answered and said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing: but at thy word I will let down the nets.
6 And when they had done this, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes; and their nets were breaking;
7 and they beckoned unto their partners in the other boat, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
Jesus filled the fisherman’s nets so that a great multitude could be fed. (The particular cite got messed up and I couldn't find a fix for it. Guess you'll have to open your Bibles.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 4: 29-33: And Levi made him a great feast in his house: and there was a great multitude of publicans and of others that were sitting at meat with them.
30 And the Pharisees and their scribes murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with the publicans and sinners?
31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are in health have no need of a physician; but they that are sick.
32 I am not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.
33 And they said unto him, The disciples of John fast often, and make supplications; likewise also the disciples of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink.
Jesus dines with those perceived to be his enemies.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 5 : 1-11: “ 1 Now it came to pass, while the multitude pressed upon him and heard the word of God, that he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret;
2 and he saw two boats standing by the lake: but the fishermen had gone out of them, and were washing their nets.
3 And he entered into one of the boats, which was Simon's, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the multitudes out of the boat.
4 And when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Put out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.
5 And Simon answered and said, Master, we toiled all night, and took nothing: but at thy word I will let down the nets.
6 And when they had done this, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes; and their nets were breaking;
7 and they beckoned unto their partners in the other boat, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.
8 But Simon Peter, when he saw it, fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord.
9 For he was amazed, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken;
10 and so were also James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.
11 And when they had brought their boats to land, they left all, and followed him.
Jesus showed them he was the Son of God – and gave them a miracle.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 6: 1-5 Now it came to pass on a sabbath, that he was going through the grainfields; and his disciples plucked the ears, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands.
2 But certain of the Pharisees said, Why do ye that which it is not lawful to do on the sabbath day?
3 And Jesus answering them said, Have ye not read even this, what David did, when he was hungry, he, and they that were with him;
4 how he entered into the house of God, and took and ate the showbread, and gave also to them that were with him; which it is not lawful to eat save for the priests alone?
5 And he said unto them, The Son of man is lord of the sabbath.
Jesus showed once again His credentials as the Son of God.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 7: 36-39 36 And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he entered into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat.
37 And behold, a woman who was in the city, a sinner; and when she knew that he was sitting at meat in the Pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster cruse of ointment,
38 and standing behind at his feet, weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.
39 Now when the Pharisee that had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have perceived who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him, that she is a sinner.
Christ showed that he felt himself not to be above any man, including a Pharisee, but willing to be the sacrificial lamb for all men.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Luke 9: 12-17 12 And the day began to wear away; and the twelve came, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that they may go into the villages and country round about, and lodge, and get provisions: for we are here in a desert place.
13 But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, We have no more than five loaves and two fishes; except we should go and buy food for all this people.
14 For they were about five thousand men. And he said unto his disciples, Make them sit down in companies, about fifty each.
15 And they did so, and made them all sit down.
16 And he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake; and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude.
17 And they ate, and were all filled: and there was taken up that which remained over to them of broken pieces, twelve baskets.
Jesus feeds the 5,000 with only five loaves and two fishes.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 10: 3-8 3 Go your ways; behold, I send you forth as lambs in the midst of wolves.
4 Carry no purse, no wallet, no shoes; and salute no man on the way.
5 And into whatsoever house ye shall enter, first say, Peace be to this house.
6 And if a son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon him: but if not, it shall turn to you again.
7 And in that same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the laborer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.
8 And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you:
Jesus was telling his disciples that they would be taken care of – be grateful for what you are given to eat.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 10: 29-37 29 But he, desiring to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbor?
30 Jesus made answer and said, A certain man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho; and he fell among robbers, who both stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead.
31 And by chance a certain priest was going down that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.
32 And in like manner a Levite also, when he came to the place, and saw him, passed by on the other side.
33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he was moved with compassion,
34 and came to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring on them oil and wine; and he set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.
35 And on the morrow he took out two shillings, and gave them to the host, and said, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, I, when I come back again, will repay thee.
36 Which of these three, thinkest thou, proved neighbor unto him that fell among the robbers?
37 And he said, He that showed mercy on him. And Jesus said unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.
Jesus told his disciples through a parable to share what you have, including food, to those who are in need.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 10: 38-41 38 Now as they went on their way, he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
39 And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at the Lord's feet, and heard his word.
40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving; and she came up to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister did leave me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
41 But the Lord answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art anxious and troubled about many things.
Christ told Martha that spiritual food was every bit as important as physical nourishment.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 11:5:8 5 And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say to him, Friend, lend me three loaves;
6 for a friend of mine is come to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him;
7 and he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee?
8 I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will arise and give him as many as he needeth.
Jesus reminds us that charity is important.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Luke 12: 27-29 27 Consider the lilies, how they grow: they toil not, neither do they spin; yet I say unto you, Even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
28 But if God doth so clothe the grass in the field, which to-day is, and to-morrow is cast into the oven; how much more shall he clothe you, O ye of little faith?
29 And seek not ye what ye shall eat, and what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.
Simple translation: God’s got your back.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
After that… well, The Lord’s Supper. Of which mountains of books have been written.
An apparent theme – a meal, sharing food, is a chance for fellowship. A sharing of faith. A sharing of experiences, of stories. Fellowship – in our shared faith, I am a fellow of Christ’s, just as you are. There’s a fine word to look up and know – fellowship.
One large difference between Fr. Plough and me – he doesn’t mind doing the dishes after the meal.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)