by Lynell Caudillo
Perhaps you recall those two guys—Siskel and Ebert? Gene Siskel (of the Chicago Tribune) and Robert Ebert (of the Chicago-Sun Times) were movie critics and hosts of the television show At The Movies. They were perhaps best known for their “thumbs up-thumbs-down” rating system. Siskel died in 1999, and Ebert had several new partners, until he experienced his own life drama. Perhaps one might even call it a tragedy. Since 2002, Roger Ebert has battled thyroid cancer. Multiple surgeries and treatments have left him unable to speak, to eat, or drink.
In a blog post earlier this year he reflected on some of these losses. While receiving all his nourishment through a G-tube, he gracefully expresses gratitude for having enjoyed many culinary delights of all kinds throughout his life. Rather unexpectedly he has experienced vivid and surprising bursts of memory—of an A&W root beer in a frosted mug, of sweet childhood memories of “candy—anything black, red, or green—in that order”, with a special affection for licorice, “Red Hots, Good and Plenty, Milk Duds, and Paydays”.
But he goes on to say, the saddest part about not eating is… “the loss of dining, not the loss of food. It may be personal, but for me, unless I'm alone, it doesn't involve dinner if it doesn't involve talking. The food and drink I can do without easily. The jokes, gossip, laughs, arguments and shared memories I miss. Sentences beginning with the words, ‘Remember that time?’ I ran in crowds where anyone was likely to break out in a poetry recitation at any time. Me too. But not me anymore.”
Reflecting on Ebert’s experience caused me to think about my own experiences of shared meals, and the experience of Communion or the Lord’s Supper. It’s not so much about the food itself, but what it represents. It is about the One who makes the meal possible — the “Chef” – if you will, who desires to nourish our souls. But this is a meal that is also focused on words and shared memories …”this is my body, given for you… this cup poured out for you is the new covenant…Do this in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19-20)
Can you imagine the lively conversations Jesus shared with the disciples over many meals, including this one? Or at the fish fry with the Risen Savior? (John 21)
Shared meals and memories provide nourishment for body, mind and spirit. Jesus knew that. With gratitude, let us savor every meal shared with another, and every memory~~ “O taste and see that the LORD is good!” Psalm 34:8
See you in worship!
Pastor Lynell