A few days ago I was out to dinner with the family. We were sipping Jasmine tea and eating those crunchy noodles with duck sauce while waiting for our meals at our local Chinese restaurant, when I noticed a family of five, in a corner booth, bow their heads and pray before eating their meal. I'm not sure why but I haven't been able to stop thinking about the scene in my head of that family praying before they ate.So, I've been thinking...is there a Biblical precedent for praying before you eat? I'm mean Jesus gave thanks to God before feeding the multitudes with some bread and fish. He also gave thanks in the Upper Room before the last supper. That's a pretty good example to follow. Heck, even Ricky Bobby prayed before his family's meal in Talledega Nights.
What has been stuck in my mind is how that family in the restaurant prayed. They quietly bowed their heads and the dad said some type of prayer in a very low (almost whispering) tone. It lasted not more than 10 or 15 seconds and then they all began their meal. I only noticed them because I was facing directly toward their table. I would venture to say that most of the patrons didn't even notice them praying. The prayer was between them and God.
I have also observed people over the years who have made a spectacle out of the fact that they were praying before their meal. They were loud and made sure everyone heard them. While their intent may have been noble, they reminded me of the hypocrites that Jesus spoke of in Matthew 6:5 who pray to be seen by others. I was not impressed.
So, if we should pray before a meal, then how about before eating ice cream? Doesn't the same principle apply? Or how about with left-overs? I mean, I've already prayed for them once; do I need to thank God again? And how much prayer should a McDonald's cheeseburger and fries get? Maybe I should just pray when I bring the food home from the grocery store...that way I pray once and it's done. I know...this is all silly.
I've always lived my life in accordance with I Thessalonians 5:18, "...give thanks in all circumstances." It's how I start my day and to be honest, we do pray as a family every night before dinner. But we don't normally pray when we are out to dinner...I don't know why, we just don't.
But I have to admit, the other night before I ate my 'Marilyn Monroll' sushi, I did pause for a moment and silently thank God for all His blessings, courtesy of the family of five in the corner booth.
Be Well.
Bill
