As we enter day thirty of Lent, Benton Kentucky has started to show initial signs of the coming of spring in the sights and fried food smells of the arrival of 2012 Tater Day. As a new pastor in the area, I have heard both good and bad stories about this annual event, the common response that I get is: "Preacher you must experience your first Tater Day to truly understand it". I also hear that this a time when the Rebel Flags come out and the citizens of Benton and Marshall County clear out of town until Tater Day officially ends.
This day thirty of Lent we discuss the gentle creature of the lamb, that is without anger, and whose color represents purity, a beautiful creature of God's creation that does not need to be killed. In ancient church history, these beautiful creatures (ones without blemish) were sacrificed for the redemption of our guilt. Likewise God sent us the sacrificial lamb of Jesus Christ, who was pure and without blemish, to be sacrificed for our sins. Jesus came and went among God's people without fear and trepidation, because he knew his Fathers plan, Jesus knew that he was a sheep among wolves. Jesus knew that only through his being among the people (especially those that humanity rejected), could the Lamb of God truly do God's work of relationship building and "Family of God" creating.
As we enter this upcoming 2012 Tater Day, and as I experience it for the first time, do not be afraid to go among the people, and do not flee the area. Next time we see someone we do not know at Tater day, invite them to church and be a symbol of the Prince of Peace and the Lamb of God. Next time we see a carnival worker, be God's lamb and communicator of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Instead of dreading Tater Day, embrace it as God's opportunity to share his Son with the influx of people that are drawn to our community.
See Ya In The Corn Dog and Lemon Shake-Up Line
Pastor Tim
Day Thirty Scripture
Exodus 12:5-7, 12-14
Genesis 22:1-14
Leviticus 3:6
Isaiah 53:4-7
1Peter 1:18,19
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