When travelling, we always try to eat at local eateries. They can be a Mom and Pop diner, to a local chain. And throughout the US of A there are many local hamburger chains. With each one delivering a different take on a very basic food, the hamburger. Add fries, and a Coke, and you have a balanced meal. With a milkshake added, a very well balanced meal, of course. And I am amazed at how such a simple premise-ground beef, can take on so many flavors and personalities.
When in the Midwest, we start looking for a Steak and Shake. Sirloin burgers, with shoestring fries and the best milkshakes-period. Just ask our Torches guys, we're the ones in the paper hats. My friends in Clark, NJ with their White Diamond, nothing fancy, just good meat on a fresh bun, cooked on a grill with over 60 years of memories on it. Excuse me, may I have another? And sit at the counter and watch them being cooked-no secrets here-just a real honest burger.
When you happen to be in Pierre, SD, happens all the time, right? stop at Tom's, another local. Great food, and $1 off on baskets, otherwise referred to as combos, or in California as a number, fresh and hot. And you find in the Midwest they call them "smashers," as they take they patty, not premade, and smash it onto the grill, just like White Diamond. No perfectly shaped burgers here. Worth the ride to Pierre. When in NM Blake's Lota Burger is the way to go. Theresa even worked in their office when she moved to Albuquerque. I always have the Lota Burger combo, but Theresa prefers their BBQ. Each meal made to order.
And of course California has its own special spin on burgers. In So Cal it is In and Out. Double Double with onions please. But lately I have been drawn to Tommy's, out of LA. Great fries, and the chili served on everything is the best. For me, extra chili and onions, at no extra charge, of course, please. Good stuff. Bakers in San Berdoo county, is worth the hour ride for lunch. And if you can, try a Five Guys, just new in Orange. Worth the wait in line-be prepared, it's noisy and loud, and almost out of control, but great burgers. Messy, too.
But a noticeable demographic almost always appears when these burger joints are placed next to a national chain like Mickey D's or Wendy's. They are always busy, while the national chain has lots of empty spaces to park. And for the past decade I have noticed the same in churches. The old denominations still are serving the same traditional religion, while many so-called contemporary churches are springing up. Based on a Calvary Chapel approach to the gospel, they teach through the Bible, verse by verse and sermons are not topical. Music is great, mixed with worship songs and old hymns. And the old main line denominations are losing attendance, while the others grow. Serving the same gospel, but in a more personal way, and led by the spirit, Calvary Chapels continue to grow, in both numbers attending and also personal growth. And just like all hamburgers are all the same to start with, the gospel is still the same. Yet some feel the need to add to it, and it loses its flavor. Some water it down, and it loses its message. It is those churches that share the gospel, straight up with no added trimmings that are growing. No designer Jesus here, just the truth, shared in love. And maybe that is why these local stands are growing. They go back to the basics-good food, good service, and a good atmosphere. Gimmicks may be good for a quickie lunch rush, but to keep 'em coming back, consistent quality must be maintained. Pastors and church boards take note. If you are running out of themes, here is one to try-Jesus. Present the gospel, in love. And watch as a local stand, grows to many locations. A growth led by God, not some promotional campaign. Nothing tastes as good as the truth. You actually think you can have better message than the gospel?
Dave Thomas, of Wendy's fame, made a fortune using a very simple premise. The two most important bites of the burger are-the first. Fulfill every desire that you had when you ordered it, fulfilling the need to eat. Can't wait to take the next bite. And the last, makes you want another after you are done. A simple premise, but not unique. And it works in life, too.
Jesus has been telling the same message for centuries. You are hungry for God, but can't find Him. Jesus made the way, and fulfilled your hunger, in love, when you first meet Him. He fulfills your every need, and when you are done praying,worshipping, or fellowshipping, He leaves you looking forward to coming back for more. If your fellowship isn't doing these things, pray and ask God to direct you to one that is.
And to all you burger stands, be glad Jesus isn't in the hamburger business. You wouldn't stand a chance. His quality is the highest, the flavor the greatest, always fresh, and no one leaves empty. Feed on the word today-that next big bite is just around the corner-in love.
Oh, and the best ones always need extra napkins. Make your day a many napkin day, with Jesus.
love with compassion,
Mike
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