Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Saying Grace

Do we need to bless leftovers if we blessed the food the first time?

What about people who show up late — do they need to say their own blessing?

When should we say the blessing — do we need to bless leftovers if we blessed the food the first time?

What about people who show up late — do they need to say their own blessing?

When should we say the blessing — before the bread, the salad, or the main course?

Or maybe the very question reveals the problem: treating "the blessing" as magic words rather than as pausing to recognize that all that we have is a gift, to be greatful for all the kindness God has shown us, and to remind ourselves of those who have not been similarly blessed.

So what do you think is a better name? Saying grace? Giving thanks? What do you call it your house?

3 comments:

Anything under the Sun said...

it is sad to say that there are people who doesn't really know what is grace all about, and to say grace before meal is just a memorized words not really meant from the heart.

The Enos Bunch :) said...

I was browsing blogs to follow and fell upon yours. I enjoyed the latest blog you posted. My husband & I think about the same exact questions that you posted. Crazy, isn't it? In response to the last few sentences of your post, my husband & I use normally use "Let's pray." But, we've definitely used "Say grace" and "Give thanks" as well.

Nancy said...

Definitely "giving thanks". We should be grateful for all our blessings at all times in plenty and in want. Teaching children the art of contentment even when things seem less than bountiful is always profitable for them.

Mealtimes might be a good time to quote/read scripture especially Philippians 4:4-9, or ask each child to find something in the room they are truly thankful for. While thankfulness is a heart condition...it can be reinforced and grown through practice. While this activity may seem like a small thing, it can help break off the chains of mumbling and grumbling that so easily beset us.