Grandma B's Homemade Chili and Cornbread Casserole

“When Jesus is the host, no guest goes empty from the table.” – C.H. Spurgeon

When Deanna and I were a newly married couple, we lived for three years in an on-site apartment provided by my employer. It had two bedrooms, one bath, a small kitchen, and a combination living room and dining room. So what if it was located above the maintenance garage!

One of the extra blessings of that free apartment was our next-door neighbors. Howard and Irene Benjamin were a semi-retired couple in their 70s and they both worked part-time for the retirement community where we lived. During the time we lived there, Deanna gave birth to our first two children – Bethany and Matthew – and Howard and Irene became their adopted grandparents. So much so, as a matter of fact, that our kids started calling them “Grandma B and Poppy”.

Sadly, Poppy died a few years later, but Grandma B continued to enjoy good health. We eventually moved off property and bought a house, and Grandma B moved into a lovely new apartment on the same grounds as before. With more room to entertain, she would invite our growing family over for lunch or dinner… and you’ve never seen such a spread of food! Every square inch of the table would be covered with a different serving dish filled with one of Grandma B’s homemade specialties, and they were all delicious. My favorite was her baked chili casserole that was covered with fresh cornbread. I can close my eyes and still taste it now.

Well, my friend, I am not sure what delicacies will be served at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, but I’m certain each and every bite we take will thrill our heavenly taste buds. Best of all, at the head of the table will be our Host, the Lord Jesus Christ.

And yes, I hope that I am seated near Grandma B and Poppy!

“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles strive after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” Matthew 6:31-33 (BSB)

“And the angel said to me, ‘Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the marriage supper of the Lamb.’ And he said to me, ‘These are the true words of God.’” Revelation 19:9 (ESV)

“Taste and see that the LORD is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!” Psalm 34:8 (NASB)

- Rev. Dale M. Glading, President