by Laura Harris
In the book “The Unhealthy Truth: How Food is Making Us Sick and What We Can Do About It,” Robyn O’Brien discusses how companies have manipulated our food supply through genetic engineering and chemical additives. These changes in our food system are linked to recent increases in allergies, cancer and other medical maladies, particularly in children. In his sermon last year entitled “Signs of the Times,” Michael Bannen described the desecration of God’s perfect food source in the name of corporate greed.
This revelation hit home when my family was diagnosed with food allergies, and we had to significantly modify our eating habits. Instead of providing nourishment, the foods we ate were hurting us. We have eliminated many common ingredients, such as wheat, dairy and eggs, from our daily consumption. Although we are just beginning this dietary transformation, we are seeing some improvements in our health.
To my chagrin, I have taken the food we eat for granted. Often times I hear prayers that end with a blessing on the upcoming meal, yet I did not give it much thought or reflection. Now more than ever, asking God to nourish and strengthen our bodies through the food He has provided has greater meaning for me. I cannot take God’s blessings lightly, even the daily meal.