Any time of year is good for chili spaghetti squash. In places that savor their chili over pasta but don’t like the carbs, spaghetti squash makes a nice substitute. Not only is it filling, it provides small amounts of vitamin A & C. As well as minerals, potassium and calcium. Topped with your favorite chili recipe or this Quinoa Black Bean Chili, you’ll be set to enjoy a warm comfortable evening.
While chili spaghetti fills our bodies with food, let’s fill our souls with God’s word. The Psalmist says:
Lord, Your word is forever; it is firmly fixed in heaven.Your faithfulness is for all generations; You established the earth, and it stands firm.They stand today in accordance with your judgements, for all things are your servants. If Your instruction had not been my delight, I would have died in my affliction. I will never forget Your precepts, for You have given me life through them.I am Yours, save me for I have sought Your precepts.
Don’t you love that God’s word is firmly fixed in heaven? Something we can count on it throughout every generation. Just as the earth stands firm, we can stand firm in God’s faithfulness. Moreover, It is life to us and something we won’t forget. I don’t know about you, but I will delight in that firm foundation, my friends!
Chili Spaghetti Squash
1 Spaghetti Squash
1 lb lean ground beef
1 16 oz Can Black Beans
1 16 oz Jar Salsa
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves minced garlic
2 teaspoons each chili powder, cumin, oregano
2 cups Beef Broth or Water
Bake the Spaghetti Squash at 350 for one hour on a baking sheet. Set aside until ready to use. When ready to use, cut down the center and scoop out the seeds. Take a fork and pull the meat of the squash apart. It will look like spaghetti noodles. Set aside.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat ground beef, onions and garlic until meat is done. Add the spices, beans, salsa. and broth. Simmer until thick, about 30 minutes. Serve over squash.
Top this chili spaghetti squash with your favorite cheese and enjoy! Remember too, what’s in the garden is good!
Are you feeling it too?
I’ve never been the kind of person who bows to peer pressure. In fact, when the pressure heats up to behave a certain way or do a certain thing, this stubborn introvert digs her heels in deeper to stay right where she is. After all, one good friend is worth more to me than a dozen who roll with the times. I say all of this because of the mounting pressure to conform in today’s culture. Are you feeling it too?
Do you find yourself turning off the news because you hear the same repeated message delivered? Although different phrases and pictures are used the message is the same. I feel like I’m under the voice of a hypnotist sometimes. He’s warning me of the doom and gloom fast approaching and consuming me and the ones I love. His fear tactics are only superseded by his strategy of divisiveness.
Fortunately, followers of Christ can see the driving force behind these fear and divisive-based attacks and hang onto hope! Primarily because this enemy has already been defeated. Since, he knows his time is short, he is in a frenzy to accuse, discourage, and persuade every follower of Christ to doubt who is really in control. The entire situation in our culture today reminds me of the old testament story of the twelve spies.
Feeling the pressure to Conform
For instance, the overwhelming pressure to conform appeals to my emotions. Also, my sense of responsibility, and accountability are piqued. Just as it is for Joshua. The intensity of pressure laid upon he and Caleb was intense. All because they were not afraid to enter Canaan under the direction of the Lord. One leader from each tribe was instructed by Moses to report what the land was like. They were to find out if the land was fertile or unproductive. As well as if the people were few or many, strong or weak. Do they live in fortified cities or encampments? (Numbers 13:18-20).
Although, twelve men were sent to scout out the promised land, only two came back with a hopeful report. Ten of them were fearful because of the very large people they saw. Canaan’s fortified cities, and their ability to devour its inhabitants terrified them (Numbers 13:31-32).
The intensity of this report incited the people to fear. They wanted to stone the two spies who gave a good report. Much like an easily swayed population turns against those who place their trust in God instead of those in power. Money holders’ rule behind the scenes over policies, guidelines, and messages that affect the way people think. I take hope in Joshua’s response to the people.
Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among those who scouted out the land, tore their clothes and said to the entire Israelite community: “The land we passed through and explored is an extremely good land. If the Lord is pleased with us, He will bring us into this land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and give it to us. (Numbers 14:6-8).
Looking beyond the size of the people, Joshua and Caleb looked at the size of their God. They knew deep down the promises of God are real despite the circumstances. Not only was the fear uncalled for, it also showed a lack of trust in God. Moreover, the distrust sparked complete rebellion and disregard of His good-natured promises.
God is Bigger
Friends, He is with us and His promises are true for us too. He implores us to trust Him. Although the giants we face are present and actively changing values of the people around us, we can stand firm. Yes, the reports of death are real. However, the number of people dying today is no different than those who died this time last year. There is just a sensational amount of attention placed on one specific cause over another.
Even though the enemy of disease has a huge presence in our lives, we cannot forget God is bigger. He determined before we were born, when, how, and the day we will die. If it happens to be the current predominant disease, then that is His will. No matter what measures we take to prevent it, we will not escape His predetermined route of our leaving this earth.
However, we can rejoice because our souls are promised to be with Him in glory! He gave his son to die on the cross to save us from our own distrust and rebellion against Him. He urges us to not conform to the pattern of this world.
Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
(Romans 12:1-2)
I can’t describe the comfort this verse has brought me over the years. As I struggled to figure out who to follow, what to do, and who to believe. One traumatic year can change my self-perception and that is just wrong. I can bow to the pressure or use God-given discernment.
Bold faith says, “I am who God says I am. So, I only bow to Him in decisions that change my genetic code forever.” In doing so, I respect my friends’ decision to do what they feel is right. I also cast aside the crushing weight of this world and embrace a different perspective. I feel the tender presence of Jesus reminding me not to get too comfortable here . Mostly because this world and all its pressure is temporary and will pass away.
Knowing Jesus like you do, are you starting to feel it too?
“I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that once again you renewed your care for me. You were, in fact, concerned about me but lacked the opportunity to show it.”
I hear the undertones of sadness in my sweet friend’s voice. I would love to see her in person and give her a hug. She is holding on to what she knows to be true amid overwhelming doubt and uncertainty.
Although I’m not sure of the deep questions in her heart, I can tell the damaging thoughts are taking their toll on her self-perception. Recalling her days of cheer and laughter, I’m tempted to bring her out of her sadness with memories of good times.
This might work temporarily, but if I continue to speak truth into her pain and pray God uses it to nurture His perception of her that would be better.
Several years ago, I too struggled with self-image, depressive thoughts, and uncertainty about who I am. The world tells me I must be pretty, smart, and a certain size in order to have value.
The thing is, I don’t have extraordinary characteristics of any of those things. My sense of self needs a greater hope. Thankfully, for me, and hopefully my friend too, Jesus fills our painful, never-ending strive for approval.
He says, “Let go of the shame, let go of the past and live for me”. He heals all my twisted thoughts with his loving word. It is an anchor for my soul. He tells me a different story of value, redemption, and love than the world does.
He is sufficient is sweeping confidence in the flesh away, too. The talent, passion, and ability he provides are to glorify him.
Therefore, all the achievements, status, and education the world esteems are of no use if I don’t use them to show my sweet friend Christ. No matter how far away, she is. She may be out of sight, but she is never far from my heart.
How many times was I concerned about her and lacked the opportunity to show it due to distance? Like Paul and the Philippian church, the care they showed him resounded in rejoicing in the Lord.
As a result, he learned to be content in all circumstances. Although his circumstances referred to physical shortage and my friend’s is mental, the application is the same.
He knew they cared! The gift I send my friend is not a solution to her problems, but my love. I also give her the encouragement of the God’s healing and powerful word.
He is not distant either, He is holding her close during her uncertainty. The secret for Paul being content in all circumstances can be a reality for the two of us as well.
Who knows when the round of discouragement will come my way again, as it did for Paul and my friend? Comfort and ease in life is fleeting, as doubt and uncertainty come and go.
However, my hope is in the One who cares, he too may be out of sight, but he is never far from my heart.
Although it’s late January, I’m already thinking about planting cabbage. The seeds can be planted now and ready for the ground by St. Patrick’s day. Our usual cold hearty planting time. I’m picturing how nice this cabbage will be paired with other vegetables. I like the idea of artichoke stuffed cabbage rolls. So, in preparation for the planting season, I’ll get to work on that recipe.
In addition to this recipe’s tastiness will be it’s nutritional value. Artichokes are rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and phytosterols. All amazing wonders in building cells, fighting cancer and sustaining the human body. Paired with cabbage, carrots, mushrooms and onions, this meal is sufficient to make the cells happy!
Since it just would be a shame to only feed my cells, I want to feed my soul too. In a broader sense, we can know the sufficiency of Christ for fulfilling all of our spiritual needs. Paul says to the Philippians, everything he’d gained in life-education, status, good religious family, and zeal for God are all considered a loss because of Christ:
More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God based on faith. “ Philippians 3:8-9
There you have it! Sufficient food from the garden and surpassing value of Christ as Lord over our souls. What a sweet combination to traverse the rigorous journey of life. I hope you enjoy a little of both today, my friend!
Artichoke Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
1 Head Organic Cabbage
1 6 ounce Jar Artichoke Hearts
2 Carrots chopped
3 Mushrooms Chopped
1 Cup Precooked Quinoa or Multigrain Rice
1/2 Cup Chopped Onion
2 Cloves Minced Garlic
2 Tbsp Organic Extra Virgin Olive OIl
2 ounces Cream Cheese (optional)
Wash and cut the tip off the cabbage. Slice it down the center and place in a large pot. Add 4 cups of water, cover with a lid and bring to a boil, simmer until just tender. Do not overcook. Drain, lightly salt and let cool until able to handle.
Meanwhile sauté the mushrooms in Olive oil until tender, Add the onions, garlic, and carrots, and precooked quinoa or rice. Drain the jar of artichoke hearts, and rinse if too vinegary. Add that to the skillet until just warmed. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Add a tablespoon of the vegetable filling to a leaf of cabbage, roll up and place in a 9×13 dish. Continue filling and rolling until all the leaves are used. In the same skillet of the vegetables place another tablespoon of olive oil, add 2-3 ounces of cream cheese and pour over cabbage leaves. Bake at 350 for about 10 minutes or until bubbly.
Look for more ways to cabbage Here. I hope you and your family enjoy these sufficiently sound artichoke stuffed cabbage rolls as much as my family does!
God Bless You! What’s in the garden is good!
Leaving An Example to Follow
Do you ever watch a little boy swagger and say something grown up like his dad? They can’t help it, it’s all they see! Since, I watch six little boys do that frequently, I get a big kick out of their attempts to follow their dads’ characteristics. Intermixed in their own personalities, is a splash of an adult. Although, we too have taken on some characteristics of our parents, when we willingly choose to follow Christ, we are called to leave our parent’s example and follow his.
And boy, did he leave an example to follow!
When he was a boy of twelve and drawn to his Father’s house, he sat among the teachers, listening and asking questions. All those who heard him were astounded at his understanding. When his parents came looking for him, he went with them and was obedient to them (Luke 2:41-51). Something many of us, myself included, have to learn the hard way.
In addition to respecting his parents, Jesus took on the traits of His Father in heaven by showing compassion for people. Traveling to Capernaum, all those who had anyone sick with various diseases brought them to him. As He laid his hands on each one of them, he would heal them.
Also, demons were coming out of many, his example brought crowds to press in on him as he proclaimed the good news about the kingdom of God (Luke 4:20-44). Although, we may not be able to command demons or heal the sick, we sure can pray in Jesus’ name for the person tormented by them. More importantly, as we show compassion, we can also share the news of eternal salvation through Jesus, just as he did.
Leaving a Willing Example to Follow
Jesus’ example of compassion continued throughout his ministry. The poor man with a serious skin disease falls facedown before him and begs him: “Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean.” Reaching out his hand, Jesus touched him, saying, “I am willing; be made clean.” and immediately the disease left him. Large crowds then followed him to be healed of their sicknesses. The text then says, “he often withdrew to deserted places and prayed” (Luke 5:12-15).
While reading these examples, we can picture the large crowds of people desperate for healing, poor and oppressed, and looking for a savior. The good news of Christ’s message here is: He is willing for all who come to him, to be healed of pain and brokenness.
In essence, redeemed of despair. When we read that he often withdrew to deserted places and prayed, we are reminded of Isaiah’s words, “He bore our sickness and carried our pain”. Can you just picture for a moment, this great crowd of people coming to him every day to restore them? How draining that would be! We can’t handle one person doing it, let alone a whole crowd…every day. Yet, he willingly takes it all upon himself. Drawing on the power of our Father in heaven to renew his own strength. Leaving quite an example to follow!
Healing the sick, while comforting the oppressed and afflicted is such a large part of Jesus’ ministry. We continue to see it throughout the gospels. The people travel from far places, to hear him, be healed of their diseases, and made well of unclean spirits (Luke 6: 17-23). But we must pay close attention to what Jesus suddenly says as the people sense his authority over illness and crowd around him to touch the power coming from him….(yes emanating power, read it, that’s what the scripture says!)
Then, looking up at His disciples, He said:
You who are poor are blessed because the kingdom of God is yours.
You who are hungry are blessed because you will be filled.
You who now weep are blessed because you will laugh.
You are blessed when people hate you, when they exclude you, insult you, and slander your name as evil because of the Son of Man.
The more he healed and helped people the more the religious leaders despised and rejected him. Jealous of his power and authority over sickness, death, and disease, they hated him. Not only did they hate him, they rejected his message of salvation, reviled his ministry, accused him of evil, and plotted to kill him. Lingering among the crowds who longed for him, were the haters.
Seeing this in their hearts and reading their thoughts, Jesus suddenly looks straight at his disciples and quotes Isaiah. Reminding the disciples that following his example will lead to slander, insults, and hatred. Blessed friends, it will look the same for us too.
However, Jesus says “rejoice in that day and leap for joy! Love your enemies, do what is good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you” (Luke 6:23-27). Jesus then leaves the examples to follow for his disciples, us and our even our own little ones. In verses 27-36 we are called to love our enemies, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who mistreat us.
Even more, his example shows us he did not condemn or judge them in their hatred. No wonder he went off to pray by himself. Loving people is hard. The pain of their insults and hatred is hard to bear for his huge, loving heart. We can be comforted that he too, called upon the Father for continuing to love despite all the hate.
Lastly, my prayer for us today is to display a bold faith like Christ. Emulating his behavior will show our little ones the shadow of our dad in heaven. Leaving them a higher example to follow.
Quinoa & Garam Masala Cod
Sometimes, I think I should just call this, “My Simple Life” Blog. I don’t think I ever make anything difficult. This red quinoa & garam masala cod fish takes 30 minutes, max. And if you prepare your Quinoa ahead of time like I do, it’s even less time than that, maybe 15 min.
Aren’t you glad there are so many delicious and easy to prepare meals available that only take a few minutes?
I love that!
I also love, that cod fish provides a good source of vitamins C, E, and B 12. As well as minerals magnesium and potassium. But best of all, cod fish has the heart healthy, joint lubricating, anti-inflammatory benefit of Omega 3. You can check out more facts about Cod all over the web, but I’m a little partial to Organic Facts.
The creamy sauce that goes well with this healthy fish is pretty tasty too!
A combination of 2 tablespoons Full Fat Greek Yogurt and 1 Teaspoon Sabal Oelek chili sauce… it’s delicious!
I hope you like this Quinoa & Garam Masala Cod fish as much as we do!
Red Quinoa & Garam Masala Cod
1 pound Thawed Cod Fillets
1 teaspoon Garam Masala (more if needed)
1 Tablespoon Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 Cup Quinoa (Rinsed and drained)
2 Cups Vegetable Broth
1 Teaspoon No Salt Spice Blend
2 Cups Salad Greens tossed with onion powder (1 tsp olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar.
Prepare Quinoa according to package directions with the No salt spice blend. (I like to prepare a whole pan on preparation day and use from that)
Prepare fish. Toss with the garam masala spice. Then cook according to your preference. Some people use their Air Fryer (that would be nice and quick) I just sauté mine in EVOO for 10 min and it's done. If I have my oven on for something else, then I bake it at 400 for 15-18 min.
I use 1 Tablespoon of Full Fat Yogurt with a teaspoon of Sambal Chilies for a fish dipping sauce.
Serve the fish on a bed of Quinoa and the tossed salad greens with homemade dressing.
Remember, What God put in the garden…and the ocean… is good!
When I see this quinoa & chia breakfast bowl in the morning and think about how many times I settled for cereal in the past, I just cringe. Really? Where was this energy packed breakfast when I was chasing my little girls around the yard? I did a class for my church a few years ago on Eating from God’s Garden and showed them this recipe alongside a glazed doughnut…
Needless to say, they were impressed with amount of goodness in this bowl compared to the doughnut.
There is no comparison with breakfast as far as macronutrients, or taste for that matter. Not only that, this doughnut does not fill us up! God’s wisdom in the garden in unparalleled.
“Wisdom reposes in the heart of the discerning and even among fools she lets herself be known.
” Proverbs 14:33
Although man’s pride continues to steer him away from God’s wisdom towards man made pleasures, God continues to let himself be known. The good news is we can start our day building wisdom in God’s word and from His garden. This simple quinoa & chia breakfast bowl is loaded with protein, fiber, whole grains, natural sweetness, omega 3 fat. As well as vitamins and minerals. All necessary for brain health and building wisdom!
On top of being nutrient packed, do you see all the seeds in this fruit? They are ready and waiting to propagate into the next generation. With just a little backyard space we can save the seeds from our next Kiwi and strawberries and grow them. All we have to do is rinse them well, place on a paper towel and dry them out at room temperature for about two weeks. Then plant them in some fertile soil and see if they grow. (The non-GMO seeds anyway ).
More importantly, as we age and face chronic disease, feeding our cells becomes necessary to function. The choices containing macronutrients to increase function begin to outweigh desire for sugar saturated “non-food” items. Also with just a little preparation we can enjoy new habits and convenience that provide cell building energy, without losing flavor.
Furthermore, our desire to use our hands without pain, open jars, and do crafts with our children and grandchildren doesn’t wan. It is something we need to thrive. We can continue to do these things with a little help from God’s garden.
Because we know… What God puts in the garden is good!
Quinoa & Chia Breakfast Bowl
1/2 Cup Precooked Quinoa
1/2 Cup Full Fat, Unsweetened Yogurt
1 Teaspoon Chia Seeds
1 Tablespoon Chopped Walnuts
1 Sliced Kiwi
3 Sliced Strawberries
1 Teaspoon Raw Honey
Precook Quinoa according to package directions on your preparation day ( I cook one or two cups ahead of time and refrigerate to use throughout the week in various recipes). Place in a bowl the quinoa and chia seeds add the honey (optional) and stir well. Then add the Greek yogurt. I prepare this the night before and place in 1 cup plastic holders. The next morning, I get them out and place my fresh fruit on top. Kiwi, blueberries, strawberries, whatever your favorite is. Then I top them with the walnuts.
When winter arrives I need some simply wholesome potato soup to ward off the chill. You know, the kind that is creamy and melts in your mouth while keeping you full for hours. As the winter solstice passes and I catch a few glimpses of the Bethlehem star, the wind cuts through my clothes to chill me to the bone, it’s time to layer up.
So, I’m bundling up in my clothes, contemplating the season of that star, and thinking about what God has planned in the coming year. Although I won’t know what’s ahead, all I need to know is those lights in the sky are a testament to his power and glory. The Psalmists says,
When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, 4 what is man that you are mindful of him, and the son of man that you care for him?
5 Yet you have made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. 6 You have given him dominion over the works of your hands; you have put all things under his feet, Psalm 8:3-6
Regardless of what the coming year brings, I can be assured he cares for me. Sweet friend, he cares for you too. We can look forward to taking more time to absorb his word, layer up our hearts for the next phase of life, and prepare something wholesome and simple for supper. You ready?
I know potatoes get a bad rap because of their carb content, but really they are loaded with vitamin C, folate and fiber. Instead of raising blood sugar, they contain resistant starch, which can actually decrease it, according to a Healthline article with PubMed backed research. In addition they feed the good bacteria in our gut. Therefore helping with digestion, improving insulin resistance, and helpin us feel full longer (1).
More importantly, according to studies, the resistant starch in potatoes breaks down into short chain fatty acids called butyrate. An important fatty acid that helps reduce inflammation in the gut. While possibly aiding people with Chron’s Disease, diverticulitis, and ulcerative colitis. (2)
Simply Wholesome Potato Soup
6 Medium Potatoes, washed, peeled and chopped
1/2 small Onion, finely chopped
2 Medium Carrots, finely chopped
1 Medium Sweet Potato, peeled and chopped
1 Stalk of Celery Chopped
1 32 ounce Box Vegetable Broth
2 Cups Water
2 Teaspoon No Salt Spice Blend
1 Clove Garlic (minced)
1 Teaspoon Salt
1 Cup Unsweetened Almond Milk
Place all the washed and chopped vegetables in a soup pot on the stove and add the broth, spices, and water.
**By the way if you don't want to chop and drop all these carrots/onions/ and celery…you can buy a 12 ounce bag of them already frozen and chopped in the freezer section of the grocery store. ***
Bring all the vegetables to a boil and simmer until they are tender, about 40 minutes. When they are tender add the almond milk, stir and serve. NO, you don't drain the potatoes and add milk and butter, Trust me, you don't need it. just add the almond milk, and maybe a teaspoon of ghee to the starchy water and enjoy!
So, wrap up this winter, enjoy some simply wholesome potato soup, and enjoy those scriptures!
Our final look at the way of peace in this Christmas series is departing in peace. A picture of this departure is found in Luke chapter 2. Simeon, the priest, arrives to the temple as the baby Jesus is presented to the Lord. I picture in my mind, an old man who has served the Lord faithfully his entire life. A man who encourages and counsels young couples as they present their firstborn to the Lord.
More importantly, he’s a man living under and ministering to people who fear ruthless Roman rule. Unfortunately the tactic Satan uses to steal their peace, and ours, is not a new one. However, it may be the most effective. Simeon knew their history of oppression and fear under Egypt’s control in the days of the Patriarchs. Then through various enemies of the land of Canaan in the period of the Judges. Not to mention, the control over them through Babylonian and Assyrian nations in later centuries.
Fear steals our peace more than any other tactic the enemy has. Whether it’s a virus and our restrictions of liberty, insecurity in our looks, doubt of love from our family, or fear of never living or knowing our purpose, it has a tight grip on our peace. Or lack thereof in our day to day thinking! The peace that comes through Jesus, says we don’t have to stay there. We too, can have peace in the hope of Jesus, just like this old man in the first century of our Lord’s birth.
In spite of Simeon’s dreadful circumstances of fear and Roman rule around him, God gives him hope in this innocent holy child. Accordingly, he is awestruck as the Holy Spirit reveals to him who this baby is. For Simeon, departing in peace meant not seeing death before seeing the Lord’s Christ. The fifth definition of peace comes into play as “the blessed state of devout and upright men after death”.
As the priests takes the baby Jesus in his arms, he blesses God, saying
“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your Word; for my eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.” Luke 2:29-32
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version 2016
We see the ultimate purpose of Jesus birth and life portrayed throughout scripture. Especially here as a culmination of eternal peace. Only Christ can offer a spirit of contentment in the place where God decides our short period of time and existence. Choosing to live in harmony with others in spite of differences in values and morals displays our desire to live in Christ. However, we cannot do it in our own strength. We must rely on Christ, through prayer, as each fearful, insecure thought sneaks in to create doubt and steal our peace.
Abraham in Genesis 15:15 is told by God he shall go to his his fathers in peace; and be buried at a good old age. He understood, as Simeon did, walking blameless before God. He further quotes Isaiah.
Departing in Peace is For Us Too!
Simeon also sees God’s promise to bless all nations through Abraham revealed in this Christ child! Yes, us, Gentiles, are given the light of the world. Whoever walks in him will not walk in darkness (John 8:12). The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:5) No matter how many times the enemy brings his dark intentions to our weary souls, our Spirit whispers within our hearts, “Hang on, I’m hear.” He sees us, he hears us, he wants us to depart in peace too.
But there is more! We don’t have to be afraid,
The Lord is my light and my salvation: whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Yes, indeed, Jesus grew to be the fulfillment of all God’s promises. His word assures us the people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned (Mathew 4:16). Simeon, having lived a full life, is overcome with the glory of God’s plan for his people and a peace that surpasses understanding offered to the entire world. The history of oppression, fear, as well as the darkness of the culture living outside God’s way is put aside. Perhaps her hears the words of an adult Jesus saying,
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. John 14:27
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version
Not only can he depart in peace with the full knowledge and comfort of a Savior in his time, we are privileged to see it too.
Father in heaven, I pray the peace of your Son fill us this day and every day. May we awake with hope and fullness of you in our thoughts instead of our fear and anxiety. More importantly, help us see your goodness in those around us. May we also live for you and be a light in our own dark places. Give us the boldness to smile instead of cry, return criticism with soft words, and open our eyes to our own faults. In you only, Lord will we depart in peace now and forever. In, Jesus name I pray, Amen.
Dye-free red velvet cake roll may sound a little difficult, but it’s doable with beets. Avoiding harmful red dyes is always a plus when looking for optimal ways to enhance our health. Plus beets are from the garden, and we know what’s in the garden is good! Although, many people are reluctant to give beets a try, they will find they add a wonderful moistness to this cake roll.
Yes! Chopped cooked beets pureed into dark red deliciousness is a wonderful substitute for a dye free red velvet cake roll. Since it’s paired with allspice and cocoa, the spices mask any taste of beets. In fact, it’s so good, I hope we never use red dye again.
Benefits of a Dye-free Red Velvet Cake Roll
Beets are low in calories, a good source of fiber, and rich in heart healthy betaine and folate. Both of which decrease homocysteine levels in the blood and reduce inflammation. They are also a good source of potassium and magnesium, minerals necessary for vital blood pumping functions. You can read more about the benefits of beets here.
Not only will the health benefits be present, but this cake roll is also adds beautiful variation to Christmas dessert offerings. Not only do we need appealing options to choose from for our celebrations, we need ones that help us stay on track with healthier eating.
But, there’s more good news, the dye-free red velvet cake roll can also be prepared gluten free. I hope you enjoy this recipe as you prepare your home and hearts for the spirit of the season. I am comforted daily in the hopeful story of redemption and salvation offered from Christ the Messiah in the Christmas story.
Dye-Free Red Velvet Cake Roll
Chopped cooked beets pureed into dark red deliciousness is a wonderful substitute for red velvet cake roll.
3 small Whole beets, washed, peeled and chopped
1/2 Cup Organic Sugar
3 Large Cage Free Eggs
1 scoop Pure Stevia or Monk fruit (This is less than 1/8 tsp)
1/2 Teaspoon Cocoa Powder
1/4 Teaspoon Allspice ground
1/4 Teaspoon Cloves ground
1/4 Teaspoon Cinnamon ground
1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
3/4 Cup Organic Unbleached Flour (**See gluten free alternative below*)
1/4 Cup Powdered Sugar
1, Place the chopped beets in a pan with 1 1/2 cups water and bring to a boil, let simmer until tender and preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2. When cool puree them well with a blender.
3. Place 1/2 cup of the beet puree into a mixing bowl, add the eggs and beat well.
4. In a separate small bowl mix the sugar and the stevia or monk fruit. Add the spices and combine with the beet mixture.
5. Add the flour and baking powder, blending well.
6. Butter a 9×13 cookie sheet and cover with parchment paper, butter it also. Place prepared batter onto cookie sheet and bake 10 minutes. When done, carefully place a dish towel covered with powdered sugar onto a flat surface. Carefully turn the cake onto the towel and remove the parchment paper. Using the towel gently roll the cake into a firm roll and place in the freezer for 15 minutes.
7. While your cake is cooling. Mix 1 8oz package of room temperature cream cheese with 1/4 cup maple syrup and blend well. set aside until cake is ready.
8. When the cake is cooled, gently unroll and place cream cheese filling onto inside of cake roll. Roll into a log, and sprinkle with powdered sugar. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
If you want to make this gluten free, just leave out the flour and mix together 1/2 cup almond flour and 1/2 cup arrowroot flour with 1 teaspoon xanthium gum.
Dessert
Have a blessed Christmas!
If you’re looking for fun Christmas things to do you can follow the link to Fun Christmas Ornaments on this site. As well as inspiration for holiday peace through the story of Christ in The Way of Peace on this site.
I hope you enjoy the site, I look forward to serving you and reading your comments.
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