Popcorn and God

I love the salt, butter and crunch of hot, fresh popcorn. It’s my snack of choice in the evening, even over dessert. We had popcorn a lot as I grew up, so part of my fondness for it probably has to do with childhood memories.

Have you ever thought about popcorn? No other variety of corn is like it. With a little heat and oil, the kernels explode into fluffy white morsels, completely different from regular corn, which softens up and stays the same color—and doesn’t explode! When I think of popcorn and several of my other favorite foods, I marvel at the profusion of wonderful flavors we get to enjoy.

If everything in life were random and accidental, I doubt we’d have popcorn, avocados, chocolate or tea. And, if life were merely a matter of survival, why would we have all the things that make life sweet and fun? All we would need is something to keep us alive and give us energy, much like the bland, nondescript food in the movie Matrix.

Only someone who loves people could have come up with all the foods that make life enjoyable. And not only food, but also colors, fragrances, sunrises, sunsets, clouds, rainbows, flowers—the list goes on. That someone is God, who loves us so much he even included popcorn on his list of what would make life more interesting for us.

Eating has been likened by some to a worship experience. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Now I realize in the context, this verse is referring to food offered to idols, but it can apply to any time we eat and drink. In Ecclesiastes 9:7, Solomon also referred to eating: “Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do.” It seems God wants us to enjoy our food and drink.

The last part of 1 Timothy 6:17 says God richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Isn’t it interesting that even though life can be dreadfully difficult and full of problems at times, God gives us many things that remind us of him and his thoughtfulness? For those with eyes to see, the rainbow and the silver lining of the clouds remind us he is there and we can continue to hope. Being thankful for all the little blessings keeps us mindful that someone cares for us and has made provision for us beyond this life too.

Noticing and thanking God for popcorn (insert your favorite food) draws us into unplanned moments of worship. We can worship God through cooking, eating, drinking, exercising, sleeping, gardening, crafting and any other human activity. As we engage in any endeavor, we can acknowledge God, thank, praise and honor him. Everything we do is participation in the life of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, even eating popcorn!