Chili Cook-off

I am, by all accounts, a sinner.  I am not one of those pastors that tries to appear sinless.  I am just one thirsty man telling other thirsty folks where to get some really good Water.  One of my sins is pride.  With that being said, I make great chili! Each year in our church we have a chili cook-off.  I haven't actually won, yet. I am the consistent second place...poor judging if you ask me!  This year's contest is this Friday.  Once again, i will be preparing my mouth-watering, venison back-strap, triple-dump, chili.  One problem...my taste buds are all messed up. And here, my friends, is where we would find a lesson if we were looking.  I have a recipe.  I have all the ingredients.  I can measure, suate', simmer, slice and dice, peel, seed and chop.  I just can't taste.  Do I have enough confidence to trust the chili, even though it doesn't taste right to me? Why wouldn't I?  I am putting all kinds of poison into my body, following the recipe the doctor gave me, and it does not "taste" right to me at all.  Yet, I have confidence that the doctor's recipe is correct and despite what I might "feel" it is achieving its goal. This  isn't new ground.  The Bible's recipe for life often "feels" wrong or doesn't "taste" right.  "Love your enemies" was a difficult one to swallow.  So was, "Bless those who curse you."  In fact, there is quite a bit in the Bible that is difficult to follow.  But....I trust it, I believe it, and following it has NEVER let me down.   Psalm 34:8 "Taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him" Friday is going to be fun.  There is one  place in the recipe I am a little worried about.  When I add the Cayenne pepper it says, "to taste."  Hmmmm...better pray for the judges! God bless,Pastor Rob