Mocking the Lord with “Undying Reverence”

Recently a Chicago restaurant named Kuma’s Corner came up with a special burger it called the “Ghost” to honor a Swedish band no one knows.

What’s special about this burger? In the restaurant’s own words, it includes “Red Wine Reduction (the blood of Christ) with Communion Wafer garnish (the body of Christ). Come pay your respects!” Kuma’s Facebook page tells the world that it offers this burger “in the spirit of our undying reverence for the lord and all things holy.”

Undying reverence does not take that which is normally used for the sacred and holy and use it in a profane and unholy way. Undying reverence does not use a communion wafer and wine in a common meal and call it the body and blood of Christ. It’s one thing to cook with or use bread and wine in a meal, something people have done since the dawn of time. It’s another thing to mock the sacred meal Christ has given to His people to impart His blessings. While the Constitution may protect such mockery as “free speech,” it’s too bad the owners are unwilling to use some common sense.

Kuma’s, you have my pity. I feel sorry for those within your organization who know of no better way to market a burger than by mocking our Lord Jesus and those who bear His name. Mock us, ridicule us, even make fun of us if you want. You won’t see me using civil disobedience or legal challenges to squash your First Amendment right. But know this. Try as you may, you cannot rob me or any Christian of the forgiveness, life, and salvation Christ won on the cross and freely gives in Word and Sacraments. I pray someday you will be on the receiving end of that grace too.

“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” [Luke 23:34]