The bread warden…

Apparently I’m a bit of a nerd, because the origin of words intrigues me.  Around 800 years ago a Germanic word ‘hlāford’ came to England which became a term for the “master of the household, ruler, superior”, and eventually “God”.  The original word meant “loaf warden”.  This quaint term referred to the one who was guardian of the staple food – bread.

As time rolled on, the word was defined in the feudal system as the “lord” of an estate, who was guardian and provider for the many people who lived in that estate.  In an ideal world this person was trusted and relied upon.

In the late seventh century, an Anglo-Saxon hymn-writer, Caedmon, chose to call God Heafunæs Hlafard, the “Heavenly Lord.”  In history since the English word “Lord” has become synonymous with the Christian God who is guardian and provider for the many people in his estate.

In the meantime, other lords still exist.  Just look at British aristocracy.  May I suggest they might not be living up to the feudal standards?  Yet, as humans we seem to constantly be searching for someone or something that guarantees our security.  These quietly become our lords or gods.  Hundreds of years of capitalism have elevated money and belongings to a god status.  We rely on money for security and peace.

Think about that.  Is that working for you right now?

The Christian “Lord” dove into history around two thousand years ago.  He said of himself, “I am the bread of life.”  He is the ultimate guardian of the ‘bread’.  He provides everything we need.  Is it easy to allow him to topple money out of its god status and to allow him to be trusted for security and peace?  No.  It isn’t.  Is it worth it?  Yep.