“Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred.”
Proverbs 15:17
Who doesn’t love a good meal? Memories of the rich flavors and textures we have enjoyed remain long after our appetites are satisfied. And yet, Solomon helps us see that relational strife, hatred, and disharmony have the power to ruin even the richest and most elaborate cuisines. It is far better, he says, to enjoy little with harmony than much with hatred.
Why is that? This proverb gets at the truth that among our many needs as creatures, relationships rank supreme among them—even higher than good food. Like the triune God in whose image we are created, harmonious relationships are not simply on the list of things that are “nice to have.” They are essential to our humanity.
This helps us understand why God would go to the lengths He did to reconcile us to Himself. At the heart of our fallen human condition, we are alienated from God. Our relationship has been broken; it leaves a bitter taste. Christ restores that separation, and invites us to taste and see that He is good. Come and dine in harmony with your Father!
Why is that? This proverb gets at the truth that among our many needs as creatures, relationships rank supreme among them—even higher than good food. Like the triune God in whose image we are created, harmonious relationships are not simply on the list of things that are “nice to have.” They are essential to our humanity.
This helps us understand why God would go to the lengths He did to reconcile us to Himself. At the heart of our fallen human condition, we are alienated from God. Our relationship has been broken; it leaves a bitter taste. Christ restores that separation, and invites us to taste and see that He is good. Come and dine in harmony with your Father!
Scripture Focus
2 Corinthians 5:11-21
Insight
Do you enjoy love and harmony around your table? That’s because even in our meals we can see a small glimpse of heaven.
Bible In A Year
- Jeremiah 25-26
- Psalm 116
- 1 Corinthians 7
