1st Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV) reminds us: Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. With this verse in mind, let’s look at grace said at mealtime.
Jesus made it a habit to offer thanks before meals
And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. Matthew 14:19
Even when he was preparing for the Passion, Jesus gave thanks. While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Matthew 26:26
Grace is a prayer
Whether we offer a simple, “Praise God from whom all blessings flow,” or take time to thank God for everyone from the farmer who planted the seed to the men from Waste Management who pick up the garbage, we offer grace for the blessings we have received.
Those who come from an Episcopalian background may be familiar with the prayer: Bless, O Lord, this food to our use and us to thy service, and make us ever mindful of the needs of others – In Jesus’ name we pray, AMEN.
This prayer reminds us to be “mindful” of the needs of others. The Peace Center at Saddleback, South County Outreach, and food banks around the nation serve their communities by providing food for those less fortunate. Our donations of groceries can be tangible prayers of thanksgiving.
Grace is a way to witness
My niece decided to have her wedding reception at a buffet in Las Vegas. The sound of slot machines and people talking didn’t provide the most romantic setting. But the atmosphere changed dramatically when she asked my brother to offer a prayer before the meal. You could have heard a pin drop. It seemed as if everyone stopped what they were doing and listened respectfully. When we pray in public, we become witnesses to the goodness of God. “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1
In business situations or in groups that include people of different faiths, we may be uncertain what to do. We can show our love for God and our respect for others by asking those present if they would like to join us in a prayer of thanksgiving. If anyone present feels uncomfortable praying with us, we can simply bow our heads and offer a silent prayer.
There is a wonderful story in Acts 27 about the apostle Paul being on a ship caught in a hurricane. For fourteen days, the crew did what they could to save the ship. Just before dawn on the fifteenth day, Paul encouraged the men to eat. (Notice what he did next): After he said this, he took some bread and gave thanks to God in front of them all. Then he broke it and began to eat. Acts 27:35 The apostle Paul really meant it when he wrote, Give thanks in all circumstances.
Grace can take many forms:
Traditional
God is great! God is good! Let us thank Him for our food. Amen.
Poetic
Thank you for the world so sweet.
Thank you for the food we eat.
Thank you for the birds that sing,
Thank you God for everything.
Author Unknown
Catholic
Bless us, oh Lord, and these thy gifts which we are about to receive from thy bounty,
through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Benedictus Benedicat (May the Blessed One bless)
Jewish
Baruch ata Adonoy
Eloheinu Melech ha-olam,
ha-motzi lechem min ha-aretz
Blessed are you God, King of the Universe
Who brings forth bread from the earth
Whether you are eating in the solitude of your home or sitting at the table of honor at a banquet, you have an opportunity to honor God with your prayer of thanksgiving. Remember, Thanksgiving is just a day; giving thanks is a lifestyle.
Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim his greatness.
Let the whole world know what he has done.
1 Chronicles 16:8 (NLT)
From the Book Your Heart is an Open Book: Finding Answers in God’s Word
Graphic from SharingBlessings.com
Blessings,
Don & Bonnie Sennott
Because He Loves Us Press 