“Studies show that the single most decisive factor among kids who do well in school and avoid risky behaviors is eating meals with the family. Family meals provide a place to belong resulting in a sense of identity for children, a break from separation of individual activities throughout the day/week, and rhythm for healthier lifestyles.” –From Homepoint Meals@Home Campaign
I’m blessed to have had the influence of two Godly grandmothers. Family meals were important to both ladies. They were keen on presentation and often had floral centerpieces from their gardens, and always a pretty tablecloth. I remember them teaching me how to properly set the table. We always prayed before meals and were taught to use good manners and maintain polite conversation.
My parents also believed dinner time was sacred family time. On most evenings, we sat down, prayed, and enjoyed a meal together. While I recall the meals, what I remember most is what usually happened after meals. We’d often clear off our dining room table and have long conversations. We shared about everything: school, church, upcoming activities, funny stories, happy memories, and so on. After that, we’d sometimes pull out a deck of cards, or some kind of game and play until bedtime. These memories around our table are precious to me because they represent the bond of love we share as a family.
When I had my own family, we enjoyed sitting together at the dinner table where we’d share our “highs” and “lows” of the day. My daughters still share this routine with their children. Now with just the two of us, my husband and I make it a point to sit together for our evening meal and visit without the distraction of electronic devices. We enjoy catching up about each other’s day and just being together!
Jesus invited His disciples to dine with him right before he was arrested. During this Passover meal, Jesus wanted to be with those He loved and deepen those connections. When we meet over a meal, it affords us the opportunity to share our thoughts, encourage one another, and to pray together.
Author Miriam Weintein explains, “Sitting down to a meal together draws a line around us for a brief time and strengthens family bonds by shutting out the rest of the world as a powerful ritual against the many forces pulling us apart.”
Currently at our Homepoint Center at St. Luke’s, we have wonderful materials for families that can help guide mealtime routines. You can find this information on our St. Luke’s website, or download the TableTime guide here:
https://stlukesokc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Table-Time_Guide_Trifold-2024.pdf
Susan Meharg, Asst. to Executive Pastors
