Sermon 578+July 18, 2009

Sermon 578

July 18, 2009

The Recipe for Abundant Life

The Marriage of William David Michal and Anna Elizabeth Whitmire Robison.

Our sacred stories abound with images of good food and meals shared, of hospitality shown to family and strangers, and of abundant life lived in enduring relationship with God and each other.

Abraham and Sarah welcomed three angels into their home and fed them a most satisfying meal. Elijah shared a meal with a widow and her son from provisions of meal and oil that miraculously overflowed. The Passover meal was the sign to the People of Israel of their freedom from slavery. Jesus fed thousands from a boy’s lunch of fish and bread. And the central symbol of the Christian faith is, after all, a simple meal of bread and wine.

When Anna Robison was a little girl, she learned to cook in the home of a loving grandmother. Anna learned her grandmother’s wonderful recipes, and over the years she developed an abiding love for preparing delicious, healthy food and showing hospitality at table. And she learned the family business, working in their neighborhood organic groceries. It seems only natural that Anna would study Hotel and Restaurant Management at Auburn.

Seven years ago, she met a boy her age who was at first a very good friend. William was very intelligent and rather serious-minded, and he showed great care for other people, especially Anna. Over the years, their relationship grew and deepened. They shared a good sense of humor, and an interest in people. They shared a sensitive nature, and a profound gentleness. William said that Anna was the best person he’d ever known. She is loving and happy, and she knows what she wants out of life—to raise a family, to be successful in her career, and to fulfill her love for food, friends, and family.

Together, Anna and William have found a recipe for abundant life:

The main ingredients are the love of both friendship and romance. Add to that a spirit of gentleness and kindness. Mix in the yeast of passion and the sensitive nature of an abiding good will toward others. Stir with a sense of humor, and allow the flavors of family and friends to fill the house with goodness and peace. Cook slowly, enjoying the weekly cycle of work, study, exercise, sleep, rest, play, and worship. Welcome everyone to share the nourishment and hospitality they offer. And in all things, give thanks for the blessings of this life. Amen.

The Chapel at Sea Island, Georgia