“It’s the best, if not the best, roasted pork I’ve ever had.” Was what my step-father-in law said to me. My mother-in-law confirmed it by saying, “It’s true. He says that to everyone.”

Years ago, for my birthday, I decided to roast a pig for the very first time. Many told me tales of undercooking it, burning it, and how easy it was to mess up if I didn’t follow instructions. You see, roasting a pig the Cuban way is unforgiving when done incorrectly.

The process is very involved. The first step is selecting a pig, then marinating a 60-pound pig for two days, and afterward, refrigerating it before roasting. When the day comes to roast the pig, there are specific intervals of charcoal changes requiring about 50 pounds of charcoal. After almost four hours, the pig is ready to eat.

During the cooking process, there is a strict rule never to open the “Caja China” as doing so will ruin the process. This restraint requires an enormous amount of faith because the only time you’re allowed to open the box is at the very end, after 4 hours of cooking. Before then, you’re never sure if the pig is cooking properly.

“You know why your pig was so great?” he asked and then quickly answered. “Because you trusted the process and followed the instructions to the tee. Many people think they know it all and don’t have faith in the process.”

This story reminds me of how scripture tells us we need to trust in God’s process and rely on his Word and Spirit to transform us over time. We may not see the immediate fruits of our efforts, but he assures us it needs time to do its work.

Daily Directive:

Answer and Journal the Following

Read:

Read and meditate on Colossians 3:5-10 for yourself. 

Pray:

What is your process for spiritual transformation and growth? Be real; be honest.

Meditate / Make It Real:

Create a consistent plan on how you doing are going to pray, read, and study God’s word.

Share / Show:

Share this with a fellow brother and have them hold you accountable.