“Azariah the chief priest, from the family of Zadok, answered, ‘Since the people began to bring their contributions to the temple of the Lord, we have had enough to eat and plenty to spare, because the Lord has blessed his people, and this great amount is left over'” (2 Chronicles 3:10).
Gleaning, cleaning, cooking, and gathering brought us to tables with thanks. As we noshed on traditional fare, we gorged ourselves on savory conversation and released loved ones at the end of the day with sweet embraces. Our stores continue to brim after the day of sharing, so now we must decide what to do with all the leftovers.
Creativity spares the food from the trash can, adding a little something each day to craft delightful meals from our overflow. Discovering new uses for the extras might be the most fun part of Thanksgiving cuisine. I look forward to turkey casserole before the holiday begins, planning for it as I take home a bigger bird than we’ll eat in one sitting.
I’ve decided to make a lifestyle of anticipating overflow–not with regard to food or other tangibles, however. Like the verse from 2 Chronicles above, abundance refers to spiritual perspective more than food. An open heart shares all it is and loves with all it has. It occurs to me I can spread a more nourishing feast for others if I plan to gather an abundant store of Christlove. I’ll take extra grace, hope, and peace from my prayer and scripture reading time. I always make sure to have leftovers for loved ones, clients, and strangers. Sometimes it takes a little creativity to apply them to the needs, but I have an infinite resource of inspiration walking with me in those moments.
Consider the blessings of faith and eternal promise God has provided you this year, this season, and today. What will you do with your leftovers?