“For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving; for then it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.” – 1 Timothy 4:4-5
When we gather around the dinner table, it’s a wonderful time. Jesus did so much of his ministry around the table. There is something special about sharing a meal together. One of the most important parts of enjoying a meal together is first offering a prayer. It is important that we offer thanksgiving for our daily bread.
We have many ways that we give thanks to God for our meal and God’s many wonderful gifts. Sometimes at our house, our daughters argue over who will be the one to offer the prayer. Because of this sibling rivalry, we taught them a way to sing grace… one they all could sing together. The song our family sings is one Aimee and I learned at church camp many years ago. I since learned the prayer is from a Walt Disney animated film from 1948, Johnny Appleseed.
I love hearing my daughters sing this verse, often at the top of their lungs.
The Lord is good to me
And so I thank the Lord
For giving me the things I need
The sun and rain and an apple seed
Yes, he’s been good to me
It is so important to say grace at the beginning of each meal. To stop and say, “Thank you” to God for all that He has provided. This time of prayer reminds us that God is present at the table. God is worthy of our thanksgiving. We should express our gratitude to God. We can do so by spoken word or song, but we should say thank you for the good that God has given to us.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
