August 23, 2022

“Therefore, because we have received The Kingdom that is not shaken, we shall receive grace by which we shall serve and please God in reverence and in awe.” (Hebrews 12:28)

I’ll go ahead and end the rancorous debate about what constitutes the perfect martini. The Bombay Sapphire gin should be kept in the freezer, as well as the martini glass. (A martini poured in any other vessel than the classic 1950’s high stemmed martini glass is NOT a martini.) The vermouth is important; although the martini must be dry, one needs to do more than wave the bottle toward Italy.

A 2 to 1 gin to vermouth admixture is to be added into the shaker packed with ice, then shaken vigorously for the sheer fun of it. The Nectar of the Gods is then lovingly poured into the frosted glass, nearly crystalline with icy film. A twist is preferable, but olives are, of course, acceptable.

The ground on which you stand is solid. Although sometimes you may feel shaken (not stirred) you are, in fact, as secure as a tightly swaddled newborn. After all, we have received (not earned or won) a Kingdom that cannot be shaken.

“Most loving Father, whose will it is for us to give thanks for all things, to fear nothing but the loss of you, and to cast all our care on you who care for us: Preserve us from faithless fears and worldly anxieties, that no clouds of this mortal life may hide from us the light of that love which is immortal, and which you have manifested to us in your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.”