Monday, April 8, 2019
No one needs a reminder that our present era promotes the attitude that fast results are a primary objective for any task, effort or activity. We eat fast food, which we can pick up at a drive through. We expect 20 minute delivery or the pizza is free. We ‘nuke’ our meals in a microwave. We multi-task and shop briskly. We constantly check the time and our cell phones. We don’t like waiting, for anyone or anything, even the red light to change! And even with all the rushing and the oh-so-important busyness, entwined, it would seem, with pervasive entitlement, we often feel that something is missing.
What could it be?
I know! Ask me, or Saint Augustine!
“You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” Augustine of Hippo, Confessions
Prayer: Set our minds and hearts on you, O Holy One, that even in the midst of our busy lives, we will be filled with your Presence, your Grace and your Peace. Amen.
Aside: On Saturday you were encouraged to buy navy beans and a few other ingredients; on Sunday you were to soak the beans. Now, a couple of hours before you plan to eat(or for the next day’s supper):
Homemade Baked Beans
Simmer beans until soft. Drain. Add 4 cups water. Cook 1 diced onion in a little oil. Add to beans with 2 Tablespoons brown sugar, 2 Tablespoons molasses, ¼ cup maple syrup, salt and pepper. Bake at 350 degrees for an hour or so. Variations: add soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, grainy mustard, chili powder, parsley; bacon or ham, diced(if not going for vegan)
Serve with crusty bread, a fresh salad or crunchy coleslaw; Leftovers: add beef stock and cooked carrots etc. for a soup; mash beans, and add chili powder or taco seasoning for refried beans; use as a side with a big breakfast.