Slavery

"...you are slaves to the one whom you obey--whether you are slaves to sin, which leads to death, or to obedience, which leads to righteousness..." Romans 6:16 (NIV)

I have never been crazy about the use of the word "slave" in the Bible. The word does not evoke warm, fuzzy feelings and I doubt non-believers rush the isles of churches to become "slaves" for Jesus. It seems to have such a negative connotation and though it is dead on for explaining the effects of sin, it can be misleading not to mention repelling when used in terms of the Christian life. We have all heard the reasons people don't choose Jesus and one of the most popular is the fear of having to let go of certain "freedoms." Ironically many of those freedoms come with a steep price. Freedom to have sex outside of marriage costs permanent emotional scars. Freedom to participate in unhealthy habits (from over eating, to abusing alcohol and drugs) costs a stranglehold of addictions. Freedom to choose abortion costs a lifetime of regret.

On the other hand what does obedience cost? It may cost more effort and maybe more discipline but it will never cost a STD, a stint in rehab or a broken spirit. But still, a slave to obedience?? It's definitely not a slogan that would win any campaigns but there really is no other way of describing it. If we are going to live the life we were created for then we have to choose to become a slave to the things the Lord has commanded. A slave to obedience. Not a fair-weather Christian, not a feel-good Christian, not a popular-vote Christian, but a Christian completely committed to the Lord's will. Not swaying, not "flip-flopping", not giving in to sinful desires but standing firm and choosing to be obedient.

We can choose to be a slave to sin (doing what WE want) or we can choose to be a slave to obedience (doing what the LORD wants). Choose the right Master.

Don't be a slave to the kitchen tonight...make cheese steak subs for dinner and you'll be eating in no time!

Cheese Steak Subs
1 box frozen beef sandwich steaks (I like the Philly-Gourmet brand)
1 tsp olive oil
1 tsp Grilled Steak Seasoning
1 small green pepper, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
Mayonnaise
Dijon mustard
4 slices Provolone cheese
4 hoagie buns

Heat skillet over med heat and add oil. Break apart meat and place in skillet. Sprinkle with seasoning and cook until browned. Drain well and set aside. In same skillet saute peppers and onions until tender. Lightly toast hoagie buns in 350 degree oven then assemble sandwiches using mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, meat, peppers, onions then top with cheese. Place back in warm oven to melt cheese if desired. Serve with fries or chips.