Rehoboam's Deli

Philadelphia, in the bustling heart of the city, where the streets were always alive with the hum of daily life, stood Rehoboam’s Deli. It was a quaint little culinary eatery, nestled between a bookstore and a florist in the chief place of concourse, where countless would-be patrons passed by on their varied commutes. The deli was nothing fancy, but it was dependable. The deli’s menu was a testament to culinary delight, offering strong drinks, salads mixed with herbs and fine oil, freshly baked breads, a savory signature S.A.N.D.W.I.C.H., a spicy stew, honey, milk, and water.

Rehoboam, the spirited owner, was a man of great enthusiasm. Everyday, he would stand at the entrance of his deli, shouting at the top of his lungs about the delicious delights he had to offer. “Come and eat! Buy without money!” he would proclaim, inviting all who were hungry to partake in his generous offerings. Rehoboam was a metaphorical image of his menu, his voice was a beacon of warmth and hospitality in the midst of the city’s chaos.

To many, Rehoboam’s daily proclamations seemed rather odd. Among the passersby was a particular man named Thomas Caledon. Thomas was a hard man, known for his stern demeanor and implacable nature. Each day, after a long and tedious day at work, he would walk the nearly 30-minute journey home, passing by Rehoboam’s Deli. The thought of a free meal was tempting, especially given his greediness, but Thomas never stopped. Instead, he cursed Rehoboam inwardly, convinced that the man must be possessed by a devil to offer such generosity.

Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. Thomas’ routine remained unchanged, his heart hardened against the kindness of Rehoboam. Yet, Rehoboam continued his daily ritual, undeterred by the skepticism and scorn of those like Thomas. His deli remained a place of refuge for the weary and the hungry, a testament to the power of generosity and the belief that kindness could change the world, one meal at a time.

One day, as Thomas trudged past the deli, feeling a little under-the-weather due to a slight bellyache something in Rehoboam’s voice caught his attention. It was not just the words, but the genuine warmth and sincerity behind them. For the first time, Thomas paused. He looked at Rehoboam, who smiled warmly and beckoned him inside. Hesitantly, Thomas stepped into the deli, and as he tasted the delicious food, he felt a warmth spread through him, melting the hardness in his heart.

"Here, have some wine it's delicious and will help with infirmities if there's any." Said Rehoboam with a smile.

With his mouth filled with bites of Rehoboam’s delicacies, Thomas was shocked at the sayings of Rehoboam.

Masterfully and with much skill Rehoboam seized the moment to symbolically infuse light into a dark place. Halfway through his meal Rehoboam offered Thomas a drink. This beverage was unknown to Thomas, nonetheless; the uniqueness of its name sparked interest exuding remarkable seasonal festivities far beyond its bottled content.

Rehoboam expounded excitingly and gave the sense altogether encouraging Thomas as he partook of the wholly delicacies. Although a natural man, Rehoboam's meekness tranquilized Thomas' rebellion through patience, temperance, utilizing skill and wisdom. Rehoboam's brotherly love and care for the brethren reassured Thomas to eat and drink of those things with a clear conscience. For those things were not offered in sacrifice unto idols and suffered not his brother whose conscience being weak to eat with an offense.

From that day on, Thomas became a regular at Rehoboam’s Deli. Often quoting to himself: "A friend in need, is a bellyful indeed!" He no longer cursed the kind owner but instead found solace in his generosity. The deli became a place of renewal for him, a reminder that even the hardest of hearts could be softened by a simple act of kindness. And so, Rehoboam’s Deli continued to thrive, a beacon of hope and hospitality in the heart of the city.

THOMAS' TRANSFORMATION

After Thomas started visiting Rehoboam’s Deli, his life began to change in subtle yet profound ways. The warmth and generosity he experienced at the deli slowly started to melt away the hardness in his heart. Here’s how his life transformed:

• Renewed Energy: The nutritious and delicious meals at the deli rejuvenated Thomas. For the corruptible body presses down the soul, therefore; he found himself with more energy and a lighter spirit, making his daily walk home less burdensome.

• New Friendships: Thomas began to interact with other regulars at the deli. These interactions blossomed into friendships, providing him with a sense of community and belonging that he had been missing.

• Shift in Perspective: Witnessing Rehoboam’s stedfast, unwavering kindness and generosity inspired Thomas to reevaluate his own outlook on life. He started to see the value in small acts of kindness and began to incorporate them into his daily routine.

• Improved Work Life: With his newfound energy and positive outlook, Thomas’ performance at work improved. He became more approachable and cooperative, which did not go unnoticed by his colleagues and superiors.

• Personal Growth: Thomas’ regular visits to the deli became a catalyst for personal growth. He started to explore new interests and hobbies, finding joy in activities he had long neglected.

• Acts of Kindness: Inspired by Rehoboam, Thomas began to perform his own acts of kindness. Whether it was helping a neighbor, or volunteering his time and being a sincere follower of good works, he found fulfillment in giving back to others.

All these incredible aspirations are absolutely crucial stepping stones for any individual striving for noble intentions to enhance their personal growth! There's nothing that could possibly derail such sincere intentions. Thomas is a stone-cold winner, with no room for failure...rrright?

THOMAS' TEMPTATION

Thomas, the shy guy who had no clue how to talk to a lady. He battled a pesky thorn in his side - an insatiable craving for something that made him happy but also drove him nuts. Every day, he toyed with the idea of satisfying his desires, and guess who was there to lend a hand? The tempter himself!

GROWTH BARRIERS

While Thomas' transformation initially had a good out-showing, the old man laid dormant within was waiting to ponce. Thomas never examined himself, self reflecting was not at all in his repertoire to administer change. When sin arrives, there's always a choice and in making the right choice determines one's spiritual growth spurt. Spiritual growth is a journey that many embark on to deepen their connection with God, understand their purpose, and cultivate inner peace. However, this journey is often overladen with obstacles, one of the most significant being sin. Sin, in its various forms, can act as a barrier to spiritual growth, creating a chasm between individuals and their spiritual aspirations. Sin can manifest in numerous ways, such as dishonesty, greed, envy, and pride. These actions not only harm others but also corrode the individual’s soul, making it difficult to progress spiritually.

THE CHIME

One evening, after laughing, drinking and feasting with the brethren, It was a few minutes passed 8PM when Thomas' phone chimed. Abruptly, he decided to leave. After saying his goodbyes, he exited the deli and closed the door behind him. With a full belly, he simultaneously belched and passed gas. Then, he took out his phone, logged into his doorbell App and saw that a large box was delivered to his front door. His eyes popped with excitement as he moved with great haste towards home. Once there, he found the towering box leaning against the wall next to his front door.

Quickly, Thomas took the box and maneuvered it into his house. Once inside, he caressed the box gently prior to unboxing it saying: "You've arrived pretty quickly." Straitway, he proceeded with the unboxing and behold it was a human-sized sex doll. As his eyes feasted upon the man-made evil, he read the name the manufacturer called it which was Venus. He confidently believed that "she" appeared very pretty and attractive, so he decided to name "her" Priti as a more suitable choice. "It's not too shabby of a name, Priti Young Thing" he remarked to himself. Next, this dude grabbed the doll, stripped "the plastic off the plastic" gave it a makeover and plopped it on his bed like a pro!

So, he strolled over to his trusty nightstand on the left hand side, flung open the drawer, and unearthed a piece of paper. Lo and behold, it was a melodious manuscript crafted specifically for this grand moment. This was a performance he had rehearsed diligently, inhaling deeply, gulping nervously as he perused the words. With a dramatic flair, he drew the curtains, dimmed the lights, and cue the show!

"Oh, you like my place?"

"Thanks, I did the decor myself."

"Yes, it's incredibly cozy and comfy for the two of us!"

"Oh, you want me to sit by you?"

"Alright, here I am, just as you asked!" Thomas sat next to the P.Y.T.

"So, what do you want to do?"

"What do I want to do? You're responding with a question!"

Thomas moved closer to the P.Y.T. and exclaimed:

"I can show you more than I can say!"

And then there was Thomas, going full throttle with his crazy shenanigans, wholeheartedly expressing his inordinate affection for pounding plastic! This never-ending craving messed with his head, and after countless hours, he was left feeling like a drained battery, totally unproductive and barren in his endeavors. As he sprawled on his P.Y.T., being slumped over like a tired train that ran out of steam! He could barely budge after chugging his last choo choo! This annoying urge overshadowed all his goals, stifling his progress and throwing a gloomy cloud over his relationships. A secret he believed none would ever uncover, why should his actions within the privacy of his home concern anyone? It is of no consequence, and should not interfere with his convictions regardless of any criticism. Hypocrite! Once more, he pondered to himself:

"Surely what Rehoboam is doing is a commendable thing, in essence, his Deli is nothing more than a place for me to eat. Some say it's a sanctuary where they rediscovered the joys of life and the power of kindness. Their transformation was a testament to the impact that a single act of generosity can have on a person’s life. This however is fine, as for me; I'm pleased to dwell with brethren having a good time and eating good food. Who seeth me and who can put me away? Who shall enquire? The impossible can't be possible without knowledge or sight. There's no reason to feel burdened by anyone for my actions between Priti and I because I don't dabble with sin, I dabble with a difference."

There are three things Thomas never took into account that bares witness against him aforetime and the forth is like unto it:

1. He brought an abomination into his house.

2. He committed fornication by having

3. Pleasure from the inventors of evil things.

4. There is no fear of God before his eyes.

SIGNATURE S.A.N.D.W.I.C.H.

Spiritual And Nutritional Delights for Wellness In Community Health

The most memorable meal Thomas had at the deli was Rehoboam’s savory signature S.A.N.D.W.I.C.H. on a particularly cold and dreary evening. He had just finished a grueling day at work and was feeling more exhausted than usual. As he stepped into the warm, inviting atmosphere of the deli, Rehoboam greeted him with a knowing smile and said,

“I’ve got something special for you today, Thomas.”

Rehoboam served him a hearty S.A.N.D.W.I.C.H platter of herb-infused meat, accompanied by a freshly tossed herbal salad. The S.A.N.D.W.I.C.H was rich and flavorful, with tender slices of turkey, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs that filled the air with a comforting scent. The bread was warm and crusty, perfect for dipping into the savory salad's vinaigrette sauce.

For dessert, Rehoboam brought out a small dish of gleaning grapes drizzled with honey, a simple yet delightful treat that perfectly complemented the meal. As Thomas savored each bite, he felt a profound sense of warmth and contentment wash over him. It was as if the meal was not just nourishing his body, but also healing his soul.

This meal stood out to Thomas not only because of its delicious flavors but also because of the care and thoughtfulness with which it was prepared. It was a reminder of the genuine kindness that Rehoboam extended to everyone who walked through his doors. Thomas remained unsatisfied and now felt even hungrier, yearning for more.

THE FIERY PATH

As word spread far and wide about Rehoboam's renowned culinary skills, especially his ability to create the spiciest dishes anyone had ever tasted. People traveled from far and wide to experience the fiery flavors of his cooking. Little did Thomas know, that Rehoboam was a master over spices. Perfected over time, Rehoboam spent many days experimenting with different spices and ingredients. He wanted to create a dish that would not only be incredibly spicy but also tell a story of perseverance and faith. Instinctively, Rehoboam created a dish he called "The Fiery Path." It was a stew made with the hottest peppers, symbolizing the intense trials one faces in life. Thomas' eyes brimmed with an insatiable hunger, pulsating with a silent aura of mystery and awe as he gazed upon the blazing bowl in front of him! As he looked on, the aroma filled the air with its delicious soupiness furthering Thomas' intrigue. Thomas was practically drooling in anticipation of his first taste, but then Rehoboam swooped in like a food ninja, snatched the spoon away and addressed him, saying:

"My son, before you take your first sup, prepare thy soul and do not be rebellious like that rebellious house: open thy mouth, and eat that I give thee with an open mind. Behold the fiery bowl/roll set before you, crafted meticulously inside and out, filled with lamentations, mourning, and woe." Said Rehoboam unreserved.

In a disloyal agreement, Thomas shook his head and proceeded. Each soupspoon brought a wave of heat, much like the challenges that test one’s faith. However, hidden within the stew were sweet, cooling ingredients like honey and coconut milk, representing the moments of relief and grace that come from enduring hardships with faith and works. After several tastings of the dish Thomas smiled with satisfaction.

"O Rehoboam, you have done well." Cried Thomas.

"This dish is a perfect representation of the fiery trials of faith. Just as the heat of the peppers tests one’s endurance, so do life’s challenges test our faith. Also, just as the sweetness provides relief, so does faith bring comfort and strength in times of trial.” Rehoboam replied.

Word of Rehoboam's creation spread and people came not just to taste the dish but to reflect on their own journeys of faith. They found inspiration in the lesson behind “The Fiery Path,” realizing that just as they endured the heat of the stew, they could also endure the trials of life with faith and perseverance. And so, Rehoboam's Deli became popular with locals near and far. It became a place of not only culinary delight but also spiritual reflection, reminding everyone that the fiery trials of faith, though challenging, ultimately lead to growth and strength.

REHOBOAM'S BACKGROUND

Thomas eventually learned about Rehoboam’s backstory, and it deepened his appreciation for the deli owner even more. One evening, as the deli was winding down and most of the patrons had left, Thomas lingered a bit longer than usual. He struck up a conversation with Rehoboam, curious about the man who had shown him such kindness. Rehoboam, always open and warm, decided to share his story. Rehoboam had once been a successful businessman in a different city. He had everything he thought he wanted—wealth, status, and a bustling career. However, despite his success, he felt an emptiness inside. He realized that his life lacked purpose and genuine human connection. One day, he decided to leave it all behind and start anew.

He moved to the city and opened Rehoboam’s Deli, with the simple mission of spreading kindness and providing a place of refuge for anyone in need. His ingredients were absolutely fantastic! The people were hungry, weary, and thirsty in the wilderness, but by God's grace; it turned into an exciting adventure! The idea of offering food for free to those who couldn’t afford it came from his own experiences of being low, lost and disconnected. He aimed to establish an environment where everyone felt welcomed and valued, while avoiding division, ism and schism are skipped, and nepotisms are negated irrespective of their circumstances. Hearing Rehoboam’s story, Thomas felt a deep sense of respect and admiration for the man. He realized that Rehoboam’s generosity came from a place of genuine compassion and a desire to make a positive impact on the world. This knowledge did not inspire Thomas to embrace the values of kindness and community that Rehoboam embodied because of his carnality. From that day on, Thomas only enjoyed the meals at the deli and cherished not the friendship and wisdom he gained from Rehoboam. The deli became a symbol of transformation for those without hope, a place where they learned that true wealth lies in the connections we make and the kindness we share.

THE DELI DESTROYED

One day, as Thomas walked down the familiar street, he realized something was off. The bookstore was there, the florist too, but where Rehoboam’s Deli had stood, there was nothing. The brick-and-mortar storefront was heavily burnt and destroyed as if it had never existed. Being struck with this dreadful discovery as his eyes gazed upon the destruction and rumble. Certainly, Thomas himself was at the right location as his head swiveled looking for the noticeable vibrant sign that hung over the door which was missing. Evidently, what Thomas never knew nor realized due to slackness, idleness and being unaware. For those reasons, he was caught off-guard for he preferred his belly rather to the LORD's business.

Only a pile of rubble was left, a grim reminder of the hatred and vandalism executed with extreme violence.

Nonetheless, all hell had broken loose in the city of Philadelphia and many cities like onto it. Accentuated by Rehoboam’s "holistic approach" offering meals to the poor and needy. Contrariwise, Rehoboam’s offering was only for the poor of his people, whereas; he boldly turned away the rich. In prophetic fashion, the heathens were wroth with the cause and nature of Rehoboam’s Deli. Numerous complaints were filed against the deli owner, calling him a "Culinary Criminal," "Racist Rehoboam" and picketing protest with outcries by a rallying mob saying:

"REHOBOAM'S DELI NOT GOOD FOR THE BELLY"

"REHOBOAM'S DELI NOT GOOD FOR THE BELLY"

"REHOBOAM'S DELI NOT GOOD FOR THE BELLY"

The thunderous clamor of their vehement protest echoed throughout the streets of Philadelphia. Social media outlets quickly caught on whereas; they compared the meagerness of Rehoboam's offering to crumbs. Moreover, when Rehoboam was able to feed the belly's of base men, goodly meats were not used but withheld it for the just. Instead, they received meats from animals that had died of itself and this, however; angered them greatly. As a result, through secret plots, undermining, and betrayal, a nightmarish insurrection was pursued by the Red Nation or Edomites, the Caucasians, who are Neanderthals by nature, the root and offspring of that murderer Cain.

The role of betrayal was at the epicenter amid the demise of Rehoboam’s Deli. Undoubtedly, the series of events known to the infiltrators about information Rehoboam had said to fellow patrons had come to light. One day, a slow day at the deli, a handful of customers stopped by ate, read their newspapers, and chat the day away. Nothing outside-the-norm, however; a few stragglers remained in the deli that occupied window seats on the opposite side of the deli. So Rehoboam and two “familiars" Demas and Alexander who began to have a discussion. Once again, nothing outside-the-norm; just benign talk. As Rehoboam sprayed the countertop with disinfectant and wipes it down, Demas; nudged Alexander signaling him to ask Rehoboam a penetrating question. Then, Alexander said unto him:

“Rehoboam, since you don’t serve the rich with thy goodly meats but served them another. What other special dishes would you consider serving them?” Asked Alexander temptingly.

The devious duo poised to hear Rehoboam’s response, whereas; he said unto them:

“Countrymen, truth be told.

I’d give them something of old.

This dish will have no fruits.

But I’ll dress it with mallows and juniper roots.

A reminiscent dish where they brayed and nettles.

Served cold not heated with kettles.

It will hit their soul like a #1 Ballad.

Come to think of it, I’d called it a Greek Salad.“

The poetic response rolled off Rehoboam’s lips like honey, shocking both listeners as they looked at him with displeasure.

Shortly after, Demas cleared his throat and bid Rehoboam goodbye and that they’ll see him next time. And so, together they both slithered outside the establishment and went their way. As they so did, Rehoboam continued attending to the cleanliness of his deli but, inwardly; he had perceived their craftiness.

Seeing the aftermath left him confused, Thomas looked around, hoping to see some sign, perhaps a notice of relocation, but there was nothing. Immediately, his heart sank. Instead, where the deli had been, stood a man. He was dressed simply, and his presence commanded attention. In his hand was an old book, its pages worn and well-read. Thomas approached cautiously, his mind trying to reconcile the sudden destruction of the deli with the appearance of this stranger.

"Come and eat! Buy without money!" the man proclaimed, his voice strong and clear.

Thomas stopped in his tracks.

"Excuse me, but why is Rehoboam’s Deli destroyed? It was here just the other day."

The man looked at Thomas, his eyes filled with a warmth that reminded him of Rehoboam. Then he prophesied wisdom unto him saying:

"It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart. The deli you seek is gone, but the nourishment you need is right here."

Thomas frowned, not understanding. "But I don’t see any food. What are you selling?"

The man smiled gently. "I’m not selling anything. What I offer is free—freedom, hope, and the bread of life. Come, and eat without money, without cost."

Unexpectedly, Thomas was taken back by the hearing of these things. The man’s words were seemingly strange and simultaneously similar, yet there was something compelling about them. He felt a pull in his heart, a stirring of something deep within that he couldn’t quite name.

"You speak like a preacher," Thomas said, a slight edge to his voice.

"I speak the truth," the man replied. "You came here every day, seeking to satisfy your hunger with bread that perishes. But today, I offer you the bread that endures—truth and life everlasting. Rehoboam’s Deli was a place of comfort for you, but now it is time to seek comfort in the eternal."

Thomas didn’t know what to say. He had come for a sandwich, but now he was being offered something far greater, something he didn’t fully understand. Yet, deep down, he felt as though he had been waiting for this moment, for these words.

"Who are you?" Thomas asked, his voice softer now.

"I am Zerubbabel, a messenger, just as Rehoboam was. He fed your body, but it is time now for your soul to be fed. Behold, Babylon shall become a plain. Take and eat, without money, without price. Repent, repent!" He shouted.

Thomas stood there, the bustling city around him fading into the background. In that moment, the man before him was all that mattered. He felt a warmth in his chest, a sense of peace and fulfillment that he had never experienced before. The deli was gone, but something far more important had taken its place.

"How do I begin?" Thomas asked, his voice trembling.

"Believe," Zerubbabel said, "and you will be filled."

And so, in the place where Rehoboam’s Deli had once stood, Thomas found something far greater than food. He found the bread of life, the Spiritual And Nutritional Delights for Wellness In Community Health freely given by the man who stood where the deli had been, proclaiming the good news to all who would listen. In an ironic twist, Thomas' belly began to ache considerably.

"Look, I'm very hungry; have you no food for me to eat man?" He asked.

Zerubbabel looked at Thomas who changed his countenance for the want of carnal things began to take root. Then he said unto him:

"See not all these things, look around you can a meal be a surety unto eternity? I would rather you eat of this flesh and drink of this blood which I do offer." Exclaimed Zerubbabel.

These spiritual things never rationalized within Thomas' mind for he's a carnal man. Therefore, Thomas strove within himself, then; being foolish and unwise he uttered vanity from within his heart saying:

"Rehoboam offered me good food of which I did eat. Now this man has no food but offers me flesh and blood to eat and drink." 

Zerubbabel all the while was looking at Thomas as he uttered folly and madness from his own mouth. Seeing clearly with spiritual lens his countenance darkened for Satan had gotten the advantage. Therefore he took heed to himself not being ignorant of his devices. Then the Devil within came out, points the finger and speaking vanity:

After uttering these words, Thomas departed, silently voicing blasphemous thoughts in his heart, driven by a desire to satisfy his carnal cravings due to his self-indulgent nature. Regrettably, as he walked away thoughtlessly, he persistently cursed Zerubbabel, neglecting Rehoboam and disregarding the sacred teachings imparted to him. Thomas indulged his insatiable appetite with surfeiting and greediness. Then Zerubbabel shouted unto him saying:

"You have not done this evil onto me but God. For the Lord thy God surely knoweth them that are his." Rehoboam was the first and I'm the second that came onto you, yet you perceived it not. Therefore, he that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses. Brethren, woe be unto you; for thou has trodden under foot the Son of God, dishonored his blood and shown hatefulness towards the Spirit of grace."

Grace thwarted by a glutton of dainty things?  This is vanity and a significant issue in Thomas' mind. Satan was in control whom shall not vindicate him nor set scourges over his thoughts, ultimately leading Thomas towards destruction. Howbeit, for a man; who does not realize that life is but a vapour here today and gone tomorrow. Additionally, consumed with pride and satanic delusions his stubbornness increased. Whereas, he unwisely mocked Zerubbabel repeatedly as he departed.

A HEROIC END

As he swaggered towards the crosswalk, he didn't bother glancing left or right, just kept mashing that button like it owed him money. Suddenly, out of the blue, a young Moabite zoomed up on a skateboard. She was in her own little world, grooving to tunes and glued to her phone. Our hero couldn't help but notice the apple in her left hand, ready for a chomp. But oh no, disaster struck! The apple slipped from her grasp, bounced onto the pavement, and made a daring escape into the street. Thomas, sensing his moment of glory, leaped into action to rescue the damsel's fruity delight. As he triumphantly held up the rescued apple, she let out a blood-curdling scream, "LOOK OUT!" 🍎😱

Shalawam,

Written by Shamgar Israel

Inspiration Never Stops!