Our grandchildren are getting ready to go back to school, one to university, another secondary school, a second-grader, and a kindergartener. Different levels, yet they are all about learning, growing, and changing. Education is, I think, based on the promise that there is always more to learn, and founded on hope, it will enrich our appreciation for our lives and our community with others.
One of the scripted questions we would ask our children and grandchildren before they left for school was: “Do you have your lunch?” It is so easy to bring it, so hard to retrieve it if forgotten. Food for the day’s learning adventure is essential. It sustains and refreshes, an occasion to recreate and chat with friends.
Many years ago, as a teacher, I happened to be in a classroom with students waiting to go to lunch, a very significant part of the school day! I noticed one student had a transparent plastic lunch bag; there was fruit, cookies, and a bountiful sandwich. It was a substantial lunch. I commented to the student that there was a lot of love in that bag. He affirmed my observation with a smile. I have found that we spontaneously smile when we realize how much others love us and how the smallest of details can reveal depth of care. Perhaps he made the lunch himself, but his reaction seemed to say that someone who loved him very much had provided for his nourishment at midday.
“For he satisfied the thirsty, filled the hungry with good things.” (Psalm 107:9)
I have often thought about the many instances in the Gospels where Jesus is at table, sharing a meal with friends and acquaintances, sometimes with those not ordinarily invited.
I imagine that for Jesus, growing up in His family, the meal was a sacred time, foundational to faith, friendship, and community.
It is not surprising that we are drawn to pray at mealtime; there is so much love for which to be thankful. I think sharing a meal with others can teach much about gratitude.
Prayer before the midday meal is a cherished moment to remember how all those who love us, who have touched our day, reveal to us God’s ever-present, loving care.
Let us pray in our families that our mealtimes be occasions that deepen friendship and gratitude, reminding us of all the ways God provides for us.