When Oreos are an Adventure

Oreos. An American favorite. Cookies and Cream ice cream. Oreo shakes. Double Stuff. Twist and dip. Lick and chomp. Special/Limited Run editions. It’s more than just a cookie.

But this week, I determined that Oreos are also an international adventure.

While shopping the Trading Post in downtown Lynchburg, I discovered single tray boxes of Oreos from China. Six various flavors. And interestingly, I was looking for six gifts to give some key VBS workers and the theme was Adventure Awaits. So what a great adventure it would be to let them sample adventurous Oreo cookies.

Peach, Yogurt & Mint, Apple Cobbler, Pomegranate, Cupcake … are just some of the flavors. (to be clear, the flavors were written in Chinese – I think Chinese – so I had to guess from the photos) Doing a little deep dive, I learned they have been doing a large variety of flavors for almost seven years.

Add to that a gift card for Java form Joe Beans, our local drive through and multi-awarded Barista Booth. Coffee and Cookies.

Now, I am an adventurer – I love to hike, experience nature, look at vistas that see bring one to awe. But I am not such an adventure when it comes to my palate. I am a meat and potato man – and select meat and potato. Simple brisket (lean), barbecue chicken breast, medium well sirloin, mashed potato gravy-less, maybe crispy tater tots.

Even with all this, maybe I would (and I say maybe) … maybe I would try some flavored Oreos. Add enough sugar and almost anything can go down … so says Mary Poppins.

What would it take to get you to be adventurous?

And I take this concept to my Spiritual journey. I grew up a bit more traditional. But at times, I want variety, I long for spiciness to services, I lean to the dramatic edge, and even in my preaching, I look for creativity that hooks people into engagement. I would not even come close to classifying me as charismatic/pentecostal/holy roller/pew jumping/aisle dancing/snake handling or anything as the such. But I do like to say there is charisma, energy, and engagement in services I lead. I pray for a Sprit-led worship each time.

This past week, I was told I preach more like a Methodist. (Note: I am Baptist, Southern Baptist) I classify my preaching as expository and engaging. I laughed at the comment, and actually felt sorry for Methodist to be compared to me.

So I ask again, What would it take to get you to be adventurous?

If flavored Oreos are your limit of adventure, I feel for you. But maybe it is a good start.

I close with some adventurous creative ideas …

• Everyone gets a Tamborine for worship
• Beignets between services
• Snow Blower and tubing for altar call
• Oreos for communion (maybe not)

Maybe I can be too adventurous …

Adventure Awaits .. take the leap!