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Faith in Action: Christian Values and Veterans Day

As we celebrate Veterans Day, let us remember that the values we hold as Christians—service, gratitude, unity, and protection—resonate with the dedication and sacrifice of our veterans. Take a moment to express your appreciation and, in doing so, live out the call to love one another and honor those who have served with distinction and honor.

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Sacrifice and Service: The Bible emphasizes the value of service and sacrifice. Veterans exemplify these values through their willingness to put their lives on the line to protect their fellow citizens and preserve the freedoms we hold dear. The ultimate act of sacrifice is often seen as a reflection of Jesus' teachings about selflessness and love for others.

Gratitude and Thankfulness: The Bible encourages us to be thankful and express gratitude. Veterans Day is a chance for us to extend our appreciation to those who have served, acknowledging their dedication and the sacrifices they and their families have made.

Promoting Peace: Believers are called to be peacemakers, veterans contribute to the cause of peace through their commitment to safeguard and defend their nation and its values, helping to maintain harmony, stability, and security in a world often fraught with conflict.

Unity and Brotherhood: Christianity underscores the significance of unity and brotherhood among all people. The military is a place where individuals from various backgrounds come together and stand united with the common goal of safeguarding our nation, mirroring Christ’s teaching about loving our neighbors as ourselves.

Protecting and Defending: The Bible acknowledges the role of protectors and defenders. Veterans have held very important roles to protect and defend their nations. This idea aligns with the principles of protecting and advocating for the vulnerable.

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As Christians, we have a unique opportunity to extend Christ's love and support to our veterans. We can assist them through acts of service, gratitude, and advocacy. Below are examples of ways that you can make a difference in a veteran's life. We’ve included some links and invite you to take a moment to explore the valuable resources and information contained in the links below. These resources cover a range of topics, from educational content to support for veterans and their families. Your involvement can make a difference, so please click on these links and discover the opportunities they offer. Join us in learning, supporting, and honoring those who have served. Together, we can create positive change and make a meaningful impact. 
***If you find a link particularly inspiring, share it with your friends, family, and social network.***

Say "Thank You": When you encounter a veteran, a simple "thank you for your service" can mean a lot. It shows your appreciation and recognition of their sacrifices.
Helpful information about sending thank you letters and more!
Source One
Source Two
Source Three
Source Four

Listen to Their Stories: Veterans often have unique experiences to share. Listening to their stories honors their service and provides an opportunity to learn from their wisdom.
There are many stories to hear
Source Five
Source Six
Source Seven

Show Compassion: Be empathetic to veterans' unique challenges. Sometimes, simply being a compassionate and understanding friend or neighbor can have a positive impact.

Support Veteran-Owned Businesses: Look for local businesses owned by veterans and make an effort to support them. This can include restaurants, shops, or service providers.
Find a Veteran Owned Business in your State
Source Eight

Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to veteran-focused organizations or local veterans' hospitals. Even a few hours of your time can make a difference in the lives of veterans.
There are so many diverse ways you can volunteer. Check out the many different ways below. You might be surprised by the different ways you can help. 
Source Nine
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Source Thirteen 
Source Fourteen

Assist with Household Chores: If you know a veteran who may need help with yard work, home repairs, or other tasks, offer your assistance. Small acts of kindness can be very meaningful.

Send Care Packages: Send care packages to active-duty service members. Organizations often facilitate this, or you can send packages directly to deployed troops.
Learn more about sending a care package
Source Fifteen
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Attend an Event: Participate in local Veterans Day parades, Memorial Day events, and other gatherings that honor veterans. Your presence shows your support.
Find events in your area
Source Eighteen 

Donate to Veterans' Charities: Contribute to reputable charities that support veterans and their families. Even small donations can make a difference.
There are so many different ways to donate. You can donate directly to a family with a specific need, set up a monthly donation to a charity, and so much more. 
Source Nineteen 
Source Twenty
Source Twenty One
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Assist with Benefits: If a veteran you know is navigating the VA (U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs) system, offer to help with paperwork or accompany them to appointments.

Hire Veterans: If you're in a position to hire employees, consider veterans for job opportunities. Their unique skills and discipline can be valuable to your organization.
Share employment opportunities with Vets
Source Twenty Seven

Educate Yourself: Learn about veterans' issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), homelessness, and employment challenges. Understanding these issues can help you be more supportive.
There are so many educational resources 
Source Twenty Eight
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Source Thirty One
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Offer a Ride: If you know a veteran who has trouble with transportation, offer to give them a ride to medical appointments, shopping, or other necessary errands.

Advocate for Veterans: Support policies and programs that benefit veterans. Contact your local representatives and advocate for veterans' rights and well-being.
Learn more about becoming an advocate 
Source Thirty Four

Respect Military Customs: If you're attending a military ceremony, funeral, or other event, familiarize yourself with military customs and etiquette to show respect.
Learn more about military traditions and customs 
Source Thirty Five

Whether we offer a listening ear, engage in local initiatives, or provide practical assistance, our appreciation encourages and uplifts. By standing for policies and programs prioritizing veterans' well-being, we demonstrate our commitment to caring for those who have sacrificed so much for our nation. Above all, let's remember to pray for veterans and their families, asking for God's peace and blessings upon those who have served. By showing kindness and support, we reflect the love of Christ in action, honoring the sacrifices made by our veterans and embracing the opportunity to be a source of comfort and encouragement to those who have served. Thank you for your time and commitment to making a difference in the lives of veterans. 

- Torrance Church of Christ

Faith, Fun, and Fellowship: Minute to Win It Challenges for Christian Youth

In the fast-paced, technology-driven world we live in, finding engaging and faith-centered activities for our youth can be a challenge. As Christian parents, leaders, and mentors, we understand the importance of nurturing the spiritual growth of the next generation, but we also recognize the need for fun and fellowship. That's where "Minute to Win It” challenges for Christian youth come into play – quite literally! These games are not just about competition; they are about unity, laughter, and building lasting bonds within our youth groups. Designed to encourage teamwork, foster growth in faith, and spark meaningful conversations, we'll discover how these games offer the perfect opportunity to blend faith with fun, combining the joy of camaraderie with the depth of our Christian beliefs.

Whether you're a youth group leader, a parent, or a passionate member of your church community, these challenges offer an incredible opportunity to build lasting connections and strengthen faith. So, let's roll up our sleeves, embrace the spirit of friendly competition, dive into this faith-filled adventure, and discover the joy of combining fun and faith for our young disciples!

Let the Games Begin

Below are each of the Minute to Win It challenges, along with a brief lesson plan. We encourage you to switch up the lesson plans as you see fit. Each game has a printable sign that can be used to set up different stations, and some games include additional printables. Some of the challenges may be too difficult for different groups, so adjust the games as needed. For example, for a group of younger children, a minute may not be enough time to complete a challenge. In this case, we suggest setting aside the timer and the person who completes the challenge first would be the winner. You can decide to break players up into teams or have each person participate individually. Again, please alter each challenge to best fit your needs. 

Supplies for Challenge: 

• Timer/Stopwatch.
• Cardstock Printouts.
• This game can be played in 2 different ways. Find the sign for game 1 here and 2 here.

Lesson: 

Reading

• Begin by reading the Parable of the Lost Sheep found in Luke 15:1-7

Discussion

• Ask the youth what they think the parable means. Encourage them to share their interpretations.
• Discuss the key points, such as the shepherd's care for each sheep, the joy in finding the lost one, and the message of God's love and forgiveness.
• Emphasize that the parable illustrates God's love for each person and His desire to bring back those who have gone astray.

Challenge

Prep

• There are two ways to play this challenge. Either you can print out a picture of one sheep onto cardstock here, or you can print out many smaller sheep found here. 
• Cut them out.

Play

• For either game, hide the sheep. 
• Game one- the first person to find the single larger sheep in under a minute wins.
• Game two- the person who finds the most sheep within the minute time limit wins. 

Closing

• Encourage the youth to think about how they can apply this message in their lives, whether it's by seeking forgiveness or reaching out to those who might be spiritually lost. Ask them to read and reflect on Luke 15:3-7 in their Bibles during the week and consider how they can live out the message of the parable in their daily lives.

Supplies for Challenge: 

• Timer/Stopwatch
• Masking tape
• Slices of bread
• Sticky skeletons like these sticky skeletons
• Sign for game found here

Lesson: 

Read

• Begin by reading Deuteronomy 8:1-5
• Next, read Luke 4:1-4

Discussion

• Discuss the significance of these verses. Explain that in Deuteronomy, the context is about God's provision for the Israelites in the wilderness. In Luke, it is about Jesus being tempted by the devil.
• Emphasize that the message is that physical sustenance (bread) is important, but our spiritual well-being and connection to God are even more crucial.
• Explain that food will sustain us for life on Earth, but Jesus is the way to achieve eternal life. 

Challenge

Prep

• For this challenge, begin by making a line on the ground or table with masking tape. Then make another line that is some distance away from the first, and make sure the lines are parallel to each other. 

Example

Play

• Either you or the participants will line up a slice of bread along the first line. Hand each player a sticky skeleton. Have the players stand directly behind the second line. Make sure that both lines are long enough for each player to have plenty of room around them. The players then throw a sticky skeleton toward the piece of bread directly across from them. Whoever is the first to get their sticky skeleton onto the piece of bread across from them in under a minute wins. 

Closing 

• Encourage the youth to spend some time reading and reflecting on a passage from the Bible or engaging in a spiritual practice during the week to strengthen their connection with God, recognizing that our spiritual lives are not sustained by bread alone.

Supplies for Challenge: 

• Timer/Stopwatch
• Saltine crackers
• Swedish Fish candies
• Sign for game found here

Lesson:

Read

• Begin by reading Mark 6:30-44

Discussion

• Ask them what stood out to them in the story.
• Encourage them to think about the themes of compassion, faith, and abundance. How did Jesus demonstrate compassion? What role did the disciples play?
• Discuss the idea that with faith, even seemingly insurmountable challenges can be overcome.
• Ask the youth to consider a real-life situation where they can show compassion and faith. 
• Emphasize that just as Jesus performed this miracle, we can also be vessels of compassion and faith in our daily lives, believing in the abundance of God's grace.

Challenge

Prep

• Get enough Saltines and Swedish Fish for the players. Each player needs 5 Saltines and 2 Swedish Fish candies. 

Play

• Hand out 5 Saltine crackers and 2 Swedish Fish candies to each player.  When the time starts, instruct the players to eat the crackers and candies. Whoever finishes all of their crackers and candy first within a minute, wins. 

Closing

• Encourage the youth to reflect on ways they can show compassion, faith, and generosity in their daily interactions with others.

Supplies for Challenge: 

• Timer/Stopwatch
• Cardstock Printouts
• Mini marshmallows
• Sign for game found here

Lesson:

Read

• Begin by reading John 10:1-21

Discussion

• Ask the youth to reflect on the role of a shepherd, caring for and protecting the sheep.
• Discuss the significance of Jesus as the Good Shepherd, His willingness to lay down His life for His sheep, and how He knows and calls each of us by name.
• Encourage the youth to share their thoughts on what it means to follow the Good Shepherd.
• Emphasize that just as a shepherd cares for and protects the sheep, Jesus guides, cares for, and protects us in our spiritual journey.

Challenge

Prep

• For this challenge, print out these fences and grass fields onto cardstock. Cut out each fence, and fold each fence 4 times, so they can stand upward.  
• Hand out each player a fence, a grass, and 10 marshmallows. 
• Instruct each player to place their grass on the table, and unfold their fences. Have them place the fences in a standing upward position at the top of the grass page, and make sure that they leave an opening in the fence. 
• Have each player place their 10 marshmallows below the dotted line on the grass. 

Example

Play

• Participants need to blow each of their marshmallow sheep into the fence. If the fence blows over, players need to pick it up and all over, placing all of the marshmallow sheep into the starting position. If a marshmallow sheep is blown off of the grass, it needs to be returned to the starting position. Whoever successfully gets all of their sheep into the fence first in a minute, wins. 

Closing

• Encourage the youth to think about ways they can follow Jesus as their Good Shepherd throughout the week and seek His guidance, care, and protection in their lives.

Supplies for Challenge: 

• Timer/Stopwatch
• Many plastic cups 
• Cardstock Printouts 
• Sign for game found here

Lesson:

Read

• Begin by reading Genesis 11:1-9

Discussion

• Discuss the people's desire to build a tower to reach the heavens and make a name for themselves.
• Explain how God responded by confusing their language and scattering them, creating diversity among languages and cultures.
• Emphasize the importance of humility, understanding, and valuing diversity in our interactions with others. 
• Encourage the youth to reflect on the lesson of humility and the consequences of pride.

Challenge

Prep

• Collect many plastic cups. Size does not matter, as long as they are all equal in size. You’ll need a lot, especially if there are a lot of players. 
• Spread unstacked plastic cups evenly on a table. Make sure that they are within reaching distance of every participant. We suggest having the unstacked cups along the center of the table and having each participant on the sides of the table, as shown in the example below. 

Example

Play

• Players will have a minute to build the tallest tower, using whatever method they desire. The person with the tallest tower at the end of the time wins. 

Closing

• Encourage the youth to think about how they can embrace diversity and show humility in their daily lives, avoiding the pitfalls of pride. 

Supplies for Challenge: 

• Timer/Stopwatch
• Cardstock Printouts 
• Sign for game found here

Lesson:

Read

• Begin by reading Joshua 6:1-20

Discussion

• Discuss the unique plan God gave to Joshua and the Israelites to march around the city of Jericho once a day for six days and seven times on the seventh day.
• Emphasize the importance of faith and obedience in carrying out this unusual plan.
• Explain that faith, obedience, and trust in God can lead to incredible outcomes, even in situations that seem impossible.
• Encourage the youth to reflect on how God's power was displayed when the walls of Jericho fell.

Challenge

Prep

• For this challenge, print the picture of the brick wall found here onto card stock for each of the youth participating. 
• Cut the walls and fold the cardstock in half, along the dotted line. 

Play

• Each youth will place their brick wall card at one end of a table. They will proceed to blow the card across the table, aiming to have the card hang off of the edge. The youth need to be careful because if the card falls off the edge of the table, they need to start over. The first person to have their wall card successfully hung on the edge in the allotted time of one minute wins.

Example 

Closing

• Encourage the youth to think about a situation in their lives where they need to have faith and trust in God's plan, even when it may seem unconventional or challenging.

Unearned (Party) Favors (aka participation prizes)

We recommend giving each winner a goodie bag or a treat. However, to further emphasize God’s love, we suggest handing out participation prizes in the form of Unearned Favors. When the challenges are finished, end the game time by summarizing God’s grace, and the relationship between grace, good works, and Unearned Favor. Hand out a goodie bag or treat to each person who participated. You can print out this sign to display with the treats. 

Carrying the light of Christ, One Game at a Time

The beauty of these faith-based Minute to Win It challenges lies in their ability to bridge the gap between fun and faith, transforming ordinary gatherings into extraordinary moments of spiritual growth, friendship, and shared laughter. These games serve as a reminder that our faith is not confined to the pews of a church but can be nurtured and celebrated in every aspect of our lives, even in the midst of playful competition. As Christians, it's crucial to create spaces where our youth can explore their faith in a dynamic, engaging, and memorable way. These games offer a unique opportunity to do just that. We hope this post has provided you with creative ideas to enrich your youth group meetings, strengthen your connections with fellow believers, and, most importantly, draw you closer to God through the power of faith and the joy of play. Go ahead, organize your next youth event, and let these challenges be a source of inspiration, faith, and fellowship that brings your group together, reinforcing the unbreakable bond we share as children of God.

- Torrance Church of Christ

Biblical Bites: Recipes Inspired by Scripture

Inspired by the pages of the Bible, today we embark on a tasty adventure, where the ingredients are seasoned with love, faith, and a dash of heavenly inspiration. Join us as we use the Bible as our guide, and sanction the kitchen to be our atelier, sharing recipes that bring the messages found in the Good Book to life on our plates. 

First Miracle Spiced Wine 
John 2:1-11:

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In John 2:1-11, we witness the momentous occasion where Jesus performed His first miracle by turning water into wine at a wedding feast. This miraculous transformation beautifully parallels the way a delicious spiced wine can elevate any gathering, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. Just as Jesus' divine touch made water into a delightfully rich wine, a glass of meticulously crafted spiced wine can add a touch of wonder and flavor to your own celebrations, creating moments of joy and connection.

Faithful Olive Tapenade
Genesis 8:11:

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Genesis 8:11 describes a dove returning to Noah's ark with an olive leaf, symbolizing hope and the end of the flood. This act of faith, as demonstrated by the dove, resembles all faith. Including faith in the flavors and combination of ingredients of this Olive Tapenade appetizer, where the metamorphosis of bitter olives into a delicious dish reminds us that faith can turn adversity into something beautiful and satisfying.

Unleavened Bread of Sincerity and Truth
1 Corinthians 5:8:

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In 1 Corinthians 5:8, the Apostle Paul exhorts the Corinthians to celebrate the festival with "unleavened bread of sincerity and truth." This metaphorical use of unleavened bread underscores the idea that, just as unleavened bread is free from impurities, Christians should approach their faith with sincerity and truth, ensuring their spiritual lives remain untainted by hypocrisy and falsehood.

Mount of Olives Olive Oil and Herb Flatbread
Luke 21:37:

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In Luke 21:37, it is written that Jesus spent time teaching on the Mount of Olives. This sacred location, known for its olive groves, carries deep spiritual significance. Furthermore, The Mount of Olives has a connection to olive oil, which plays a remarkable role in Mediterranean cuisine. This flatbread appetizer captures the essence of the spiritual connection, as it is a delightful dish that features the divine flavors of olive oil and aromatic herbs, symbolizing both the physical and spiritual nourishment associated with the Mount of Olives, all while paying homage to the rich history by offering a delectable taste of the region’s culinary traditions.

Nutty Fig of the Promised Land
Deuteronomy 8:8:

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Deuteronomy 8:8 vividly details the lavish Promised Land as one filled with "wheat, barley, vines, fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil, and honey." Through the harmonious fusion of wholesome ingredients, this nutty fig appetizer reflects the historical bounty of the land and celebrates promises of abundance and prosperity.

God’s Protection Bitter Herb Salad
Exodus 12:8:

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Exodus 12:8 instructs the Israelites to eat the Passover lamb with bitter herbs, illustrating the hardships of slavery and the bitterness of the Israelites' journey to freedom. Much like this symbolic act of remembrance, a bitter salad serves as a powerful reminder of God's protection during the Passover. It signifies the contrast between the bitterness of the past and the promise of a better, liberated future, where God's care and guidance are ever-present.

Birthright Lentil Stew
Genesis 25:29-34:

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In Genesis 25:29-34, Esau's hasty decision to exchange his birthright for a dish of lentil stew demonstrates the significance of the flavors within the Scripture. The savory lentil stew represents the allure of immediate, worldly pleasures, much like Esau's momentary desire for a delicious meal. This story serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that the inviting flavors of life should not lead us to sacrifice our long-term blessings or spiritual birthright for fleeting indulgences. Don’t let that stop you from enjoying this tempting stew, but appreciate the imperative wisdom it represents.

Holy Matrimony Barley Soup
Numbers 5:15:

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Numbers 5:15 references barley in the context of a jealousy offering within marriage. Barley, in this verse, symbolizes the sustenance and fertility of a union. Just as barley holds value in this scriptural context, this delicious barley soup serves as a representation of the nourishment and strength that a holy matrimony can offer, emphasizing that the sacred bond of marriage provides sustenance and fertility to a loving partnership.

Lamb Among the Wolves Stew
Luke 10:1-3:

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In Luke 10:1-3, Jesus sends out his disciples as "lambs among wolves," alluding to the vulnerability and the challenges they will face. Just as these disciples were entrusted with a divine mission, this appetizing lamb stew can serve as a metaphor for nourishment and sustenance, illustrating the need for strength and resilience while facing the world's adversities, much like the disciples' mission in a difficult environment.

Isaac’s Venison Stew
Genesis 27:2-4:

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In Genesis 27:2-4, Isaac, aging and desiring a flavorful meal, instructs his son Esau to prepare him some venison stew. This passage reflects Isaac's taste for venison, building a bridge to the recipe for the venison stew we share with you. Preparing such a dish celebrates Isaac's favorite dish, and allows you to savor a taste of the past and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that resonates with tradition. 

Eternal Harvest Casserole
James 3:18:

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James 3:18 speaks of the "harvest of righteousness" sown in peace. This concept beautifully aligns with the notion of an eternal harvest, highlighting the enduring yield of virtuous actions and goodwill. This vegetable casserole, prepared with the plenitude of nature's blessings, mirrors this sentiment, offering a taste of earthly generosity while reminding us of the eternal harvest of righteousness that flourishes through kindness and harmony.

Song of Songs Charoset
Song of Songs 2:2-5; 4:13-14:

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The poetic verses found in Song of Songs 2:2-5 and 4:13-14 describe the sweet and fragrant delights of love, by relying upon the fruits of the land. Just as these verses evoke the essence of passion and sweetness, this Charoset made with luscious Medjool dates, the zest of oranges, and the rich texture of almonds and walnuts perfectly captures the romantic and sensual undertones in the Scriptures. This captivating blend of ingredients, inspired by Biblical imagery, serves as a delightful reminder of the abundant and rich experiences love can offer, both in taste and in life. 

Plentiful Harvest Roasted Vegetables
Psalm 67:6:

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Psalm 67:6 speaks of how "the land yields its harvest." This verse aligns with the abundance of nature's bounty, much like a plentiful harvest. Just as the land generously provides, this roasted vegetable side dish, brimming with the flavors of freshly harvested produce, honors the gifts and blessings that God provides for us here on Earth.  

He is the Lamb of God Roast
John 1:29:

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John 1:29 depicts Jesus as the "Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world." This expression connects to the tradition of a lamb roast, where the lamb has historically spoken to tenderness, purity, and sacrifice. When you prepare this lamb roast, you are actively partaking in an ancient custom that reflects the spiritual significance of John 1:29, as we savor the tender, pure essence of the lamb, reminiscent of the Lamb of God who brings redemption to the world. 

Keeping the Sabbath Lamb Kebabs
Numbers 28:9-10:

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Numbers 28:9-10 outlines the Sabbath offerings of lambs to the Lord. This passage underscores the sacred observance of the Sabbath in Jewish tradition. When you enjoy these lamb kebabs, you can recollect the religious traditions and reverence that surround the origins of our faith. This savory meal blends a delicious culinary experience with a meaningful spiritual connection.

Filling Breaded Cod
Matthew 14:13-21:

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The story of feeding the 5000 in Matthew 14:13-21, where Jesus multiplied a small amount of bread and fish to feed a multitude, highlights the miraculous abundance that can arise from meager resources. In a sense, this simple yet tasty dish echoes the flavor-filled and satisfying transformation of basic ingredients through the artful combination of breadcrumbs and seasonings.

Flowing Milk and Honey Pudding 
Deuteronomy 6:3:

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Deuteronomy 6:3 encourages the faithful to follow the commandments of God, emphasizing the call to be obedient. This exquisitely sweet oat milk and honey pudding reminds us of the promising rewards of “a  land flowing with milk and honey” that accompany faithful obedience. This yummy treat pleases the taste buds while denoting the divine guidance that leads to a life filled with spiritual richness and fulfillment.

Now it is Time to Get Cooking

Drawing upon nourishment from the Holy Book, these recipes blend faith, flavors, and the Word of God into a harmonious feast that is sure to tantalize your senses and soul; making mealtime a reminder of the blessings and stories that have shaped our faith. May you continue to find nourishment, both physical and spiritual, in the flavors that satisfy the palate and encourage you to stay true to the principles of faith. Bon appétit and God bless!

- Torrance Church of Christ