I was recently taken back in my mind to pleasurable dining
experiences in some fine-dining restaurants.
(I’ll explain later what stimulated the thoughts.) Larry and I have been to so many places and
visited with so many people that I sometimes amaze myself and also rebuke
myself because of too many unnecessary details that are stored along with the
meaningful treasures in my memories. I
recalled times when we didn’t have valet parking but walked from our vehicle
and absorbed the entire atmosphere. I
could visualize things such as rich brick walls, stained wood frames around windows
and maybe small window panes through which I could see the glow from candles
atop cloth covered tables. I also
remembered the walks along pebble covered or cobblestoned sidewalks amid
beautiful blossomed shrubs. And how
could you forget the inviting aromas of the “known-for” dishes on the menu
lilting on the soft breezes when you were suddenly SMACKED when the wind
shifted and there was no less than a pungent stench which practically knocked
you off your feet? At first you ask yourself “Where did that come from?” Then
you realized you were downwind of the restaurant dumpster. You were at the very same business
establishment but you were shocked to discover that something so offensive
could come forth.
Now, as to what prompted my recall of these experiences. I was reading a scripture that so convicted
my heart. Luke 6:45 NKJV: “A good man
out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of
the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his
mouth speaks.” I know that I am not an
evil person. I am the righteousness of
God and His child but I do still struggle with my flesh and evil and Holy
Spirit has to often speak to me about my speech. On this occasion the particular reminder and
comparison spoke loudly. To tell you the
truth, I am grateful for His rebuke and for His attempt to make me better and
stronger; after all He knows my desire and the desire of my Father.
