Psalm 34:1–8 Sirach (Ecclesiasticus) 47:8-10 Hebrews 13:14–21 Luke 24:44–48
Taste and see that the LORD is good; happy are they who trust in him!
It seems almost cruel for the lectionary to add this verse during these long 40 days when so many of us have been changing our diets in an effort to keep a holy Lent. No chocolate. No caffeine. No alcohol. I know some who go vegan for Lent. At my house, one daughter is trying to be a vegetarian.
Oh, the sacrifices! We give up so much to show our devotion to God. Yet, in only a few short days, we will remember that Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice. Jesus gave his life in obedience to God because He saw that the Lord is good.
As we come closer to Good Friday, let us find satisfaction in what has been given to us freely. Instead of whining about not having wine, let us give thanks for grace and mercy poured out with abundance.
Perhaps we can taste and see how good God is to us in what we already have . . . and find happiness in our Lord.

–Elizabeth Gardner