Not only do we feel it isn't strange to mention these three terms together, but believe it may be the solution to healing a polarized and agenda-driven society. There is a common theme in Biblical and ancient writings where deep conversations were had and relationships built over a feast of food & "Strong Fermented Drink". And yes, these feasts with drink were even prescribed by God. Here are our thoughts.

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JESUS

Without trying to make a religious statement I can only tell you that Jesus is most likely a much different person than you have experienced through some of His followers. He is literally the most "down to earth" (pun intended) person you will ever meet from either a historic or present-day perspective. His practical insights into life and handling adversity are the guideposts to fulfillment and peaceful living. Most people probably don't recognize that he was also the biggest "cultural renegade" to ever walk the face of the earth. However, he did this in a way that built people up and brought resolution by being the solution. He was not passive or reckless but relentless and mission-driven. Whether you are religious or not, it is hard to deny his life had more impact on this world than any other person who ever lived. We believe our culture could use a heavy dose of these conversations and relationships.

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LIFE

"It sucks and then you die." I am not sure who penned this quote but would venture to say there are more people who believe this today than ever before. I am sure that this is true for generations of people, but also know it doesn't have to be. Sometimes I feel like a crazy person when watching the news or scrolling social media. I wonder if there is anyone else out there who wants to have a healthy and logical conversation. Our culture is quickly spinning out of control. People deal out agenda-driven platforms, drama, and hate, that the public apparently buys into hook, line, and sinker. If there has ever been a season where we should "NOT" just believe it because we saw it on TV or the internet, that season is now. The problem from what I have seen is that no one is willing to have an open-minded civil conversation. Agendas have become polarized with this unspoken requirement to pick a side and fight to the death. There is no give and take. There is no seeking to understand a perspective outside of our own. No one is willing to learn, submit, or even admit they may not have it all figured out. One of my mentors taught me a long time ago that "What people are complaining about, is not actually what is wrong with them." That statement resonates with me more today than ever before. I feel like people are so desperate for relationships and interaction that they join a cause just to be a part of something without truly knowing what it is that they are even fighting for. It can become so overwhelming that sometimes I feel like we are beyond repair. I am however willing to take a shot at being part of the solution one conversation and one relationship at a time.

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Whiskey

There has been some debate about the origin of a certain quote but a reliable source shows it coming from Benjamin Franklin around 1779 in a letter to his friend Andre Morellet (translated from the French). He wrote: "Behold the rain which descends from heaven upon our vineyards, and which incorporates itself with the grapes to be changed into wine; a constant proof that God loves us, and loves to see us happy." Although Mr. Franklin was not quoting a specific verse, there is plenty of scriptural support for his comment. I have spent the majority of my life involved in the food and beverage industry. And while I have seen situations where this thing intended for good was abused by men and women, I have also seen it bring great joy in the midst of celebration. I love the creativity and passion that beverage makers put into perfecting their craft and love hearing their stories that go along with these passions. We at Jesus Life and Whiskey do not condone overindulgence or drunkenness, but like many other things believe that when used appropriately, it is a blessing. What we have learned more than anything, is that discussing the use of alcohol in spiritual circles is one of the greatest revealers of a person's heart. It is almost impossible to have this conversation without religious people picking a side and fighting to the death. The conversation reveals very legalistic spirits, as well as very liberal and carnal ones, all in the name of Jesus. And Jesus does not belong to either group, but lands directly in the middle, finding agreement and disagreement with both sides. I believe that there are many conversations to be had like this one that are microcosms of the world that we live in. But more importantly, we believe viewing these conversations through the eyes of Jesus also gives insight into the cure... which is love. Here is to hoping that you join the converation.

 

Cheers!

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The JL&W