What We’re All About

What We’re All About

“I’m not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation…” Romans 1:16

Recently, in an ever desirous attempt to improve my eating habits, I decided to make a change.  Nothing drastic, mind you, but an upgrade, nonetheless. Instead of eating an ever-satisfying Big Mac, I went the In - N - Out route. Now before you congratulate me too much, listen further.  Since crash diets often plummet faster than a lead-suited skydiver, I decided to ease into it.  In other words, start slow.  Simply by dropping from the 4,000-calorie burger to the 3,000-calorie burger would allow me to ease into it gradually.  Man, that burger was tasty…and 1,000 calories lighter.  I could feel the weight dropping off with every bite.  I’m tellin’ you, that’s what a hamburger is all about!

Now, In - N - Out is one great place if not a bit confusing.  I always feel like I’m on candid camera when I’m in that place. Have you ever:

1)    Ordered in the Drive Thru? They ask the ever-brainteasing query, “Are you eating it in your car or do you want it to go?”  That question is harder than the English section of my high school SAT’s.  I usually say, “Yes!”  Because I’m eating in my car and I will be on the “go.”

2)    Experienced the Straw Slide?  They love leaving the top half of the straw wrapper on until seconds before (sometimes at the moment) that you begin to comprehend it as your own.  At that split second, notice how they pull the wrapper off the top as if “no air” was allowed to penetrate the drink under their watch. Watch the sleight of hand next time you’re there. Like David Blaine at the Mirage! 

But greater still, the famous franchise has an undisclosed menu that is more covert than the Pentagon’s secret chambers.  You don’t find it…you simply stumble upon it.  Along with the modified menu on display, is another menu that is kept so quiet that it makes the Mason’s look like gossips and Coca-Cola’s recipe front page news. Please “Tell My Story” if I disappear for talking (never to be heard from again).  Foods such as Protein Style (burger with a lettuce wrap) and Animal Style (artery-clogging french fries) are but a few of the items they don’t advertise, but are more than happy to oblige. Talk to the locals and they will spill like a collapsing Dr. Pepper.  If you like, you could tell them you think a “Protein Animal” would be great with “lettuce wrapped in cheese” for any attempting a “Gluttonous Diet.” 

However, in this clandestine chain, not everything is so secretive.  In fact, it’s everything but “under the radar” as to what is important to them.   From Day One back in 1948, In - N - Out founding family, Harry and Esther Snyder, and now, their grandchild Lynsi Torres, tout it, a restaurant that serves quality food and honors the Lord in all they do.  In the words of Paul, they are “not ashamed” to tell you. Years ago, they decided to make it known as well…though most eventually find out.  

Turn over the cups (Warning: Don’t try this while cups still contain a beverage) and you will see a Bible verse printed on the bottom rim of every cup. One from the Old Testament and one from the New.   

1)    The Milk Shake (OT) Cups:  At the bottom rim, you find Proverbs 3:5,6 which points us to the verse, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”

2)    The Soda (NT) Cups:  Printed below is John 3:16 which is ever so famous, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life.”

You can see why I, when able, support California’s most famous secret society of burgers and fries and will even go on a “diet” to get one.  They inspire me to spread the most wonderful message ever given. You could say, “Unashamedly, giving the gospel…one person at a time.” 

Now that’s what a Christian is all about!

Terry Risser

Reflections:

1)   Who was the last person you shared something God did for you?

2)   Think of a way today you might slip Him into a conversation.

Consider reading the Word today:

Copyright 2015 - Terry Risser