How often do we sit down for a meal, gulp it down, and then move on to the next thing on our to do list? Far too often, I'm afraid. We take the food for granted, and treat it as if it's nothing more than fuel for our bodies, like putting gas in the automobile tank. Bishop Gonia reminds us of some important things in today's devotion. First, as it says in 1 Thessalonians, "give thanks." This food is a gift of God, and many struggle just to have a meal. But in addition to giving thanks for the food, also give thanks "for hands that have labored in ways seen and unseen for the sake of taking part in God's bounty." This could include farmers, ranchers, scientists who help develop food products, those that harvest, workers in meat packing plants, truck drivers who transport food, grocery store workers, and cooks, to name just a few. Within that chain, also remember that some who brought food to our tables are working in low paying jobs, "some of whom themselves are dealing with the impact of poverty in their lives." This is a humbling thought. And then he suggests that we include a petition for those who do struggle for daily bread. "I ask that we might be moved as Christ's hands of healing and hope in the world, so that no one will go hungry and all will be filled." As you sit down at the table for a meal today, perhaps try offering a prayer of thanks as Bishop Gonia suggests. It reminds us that there are "a grand cast of characters" who have brought this food to us, to be grateful, and to not take our daily bread for granted.
Harvesting coffee beans for our morning coffee!
Bishop Gonia's prayer suggestion is an important reminder of how far-reaching our gratitude should be!
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