THE CHILDREN'S TASTING

During the long desert journey of the people of Israel, the young and growing children would remember no taste except that of the manna, their only food. Happy for them that they had not known the land of hard bondage and its spicy foods! The manna was gathered from the ground after the morning dew and the taste of it was like cake with honey. Thus it was both strength and sweetness for the daily need of each person - of great leaders like Moses and Miriam as well as of little boys and girls. More than thirty-four centuries ago therefore there was a sign, or type, of a constant food which we have for our hearts and minds as Christians now, Although we know Jesus glorified, we learn from the record in the Gospels how He lived in a humble life such as our own.

An unusual wall-text seen in a friend's house many years ago was a question asked by Job in ten short words - "is there any taste in the white of an egg?" Persons were expected to ask why such a question is in the Bible and would thus show some interest at least in God's word! When Satan was allowed to trouble him, Job had to endure many things that seemed to be without purpose, besides many that were painful too. This may be so with us but we learn by it that the Lord has a result to reach in our souls and He is of tender feeling towards us all the time.

Such history reminds us that precious stones have been formed under great pressure and the time may have been long. On the other hand God's purpose can be reached quickly. In one sentence of his first letter the apostle Peter mentions newborn babes eager for their simple food: in the next sentence his thoughts are on holy priests praising God. It is the result of tasting that the Lord is good that we come to Him continually for the pure milk of His word and thus grow up to salvation. This salvation is fully known only in being a living stone in God's house, called a "spiritual house" because it is built of those who have gladly received of His Spirit. Divine service is carried on there in a way that is pleasing to Him. The Lord Jesus is prominent as "a precious cornerstone" but do you fill the place that is just for you?

J.C.Evershed