Living in the Now: The Heart of Being Kosher

Sometimes the best library books I find are when I just stroll the aisles.  Hence this random jewel:

Buy on this fab website

Old Testament law reminds me of why I love being Anglican: God's abounding love for us began before the foundations of the world.  How He desires a relationship.  His heart towards me is good.  This soulful story's foundation is in these first few books. 

But, I have never read a book on being Kosher.  I found it worth a toe dip, even if it is too much to jump all the way in.  The motive for this lifestyle can be found here:

For you are a people holy to the Lord your God, and the Lord has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth.  You shall not eat any abomination.  Deuteronomy 14:2-3

At its heart, Kosher is eating purposefully, honoring heritage, and acknowledging the Lord.  Kosher is a humble lifestyle of submission.   Live-giving, nutrient rich food is eaten purposefully to bring glory to the God who feeds us, mind, body and spirit.  The author, Lise Stern notes:

Deciding to keep kosher, and how you keep kosher is a personal choice.  For me, keeping kosher reminds me of my Jewish beliefs and of God every time I eat.  It makes me consider what I am eating, and helps me appreciate it.

I was startled--and convicted--to find Stern's heart was practically opposite of how I eat on an average day.  When was the last time my PB&J reminded me of God?  Maybe I've been sacrificing a moment to worship. 

The most purposeful meal I prepare or eat is Eucharist.  The pattern of preparing and receiving is well-considered.  No other distraction demands my attention, and I'm fully present in this feasting moment.  There is soulful music, companionship of family, and deep satisfaction in participating.  Maybe communion is the most Kosher thing I do all week.  What if "keeping the feast" was a culmination of keeping little feasts all week?  What if my undivided heart seamlessly worshiped God the same way, communion wine or PB&J?

My challenge for you is to consider the heart of being Kosher.  See the stark contrast that our average American day leaves us wanting.  What ways can you live purposefully, to honor our Creator with each life-giving morsel?