Amid the hustle and bustle of life, the whirlwind of our daily chores, and the demanding nature of our work, there's a place that offers refuge and warmth: the dinner table. If you've ever glanced through the ancient pages of the Bible, you'll find it is replete with tales and truths about meals, feasts, and the act of breaking bread together.
There's something profoundly spiritual and soul-nourishing about gathering around a table and sharing food, stories, and love.
Consider the poetic wisdom embedded in Proverbs 15:17: "Better is a dinner of herbs where love is than a fattened ox and hatred with it." At a superficial glance, this might seem like a mere contrast between a modest meal and a lavish feast. Yet, looking deeper, its profound truth unveils itself.
This scripture isn't a comparison of menu items as it is a lesson on the atmosphere and intention behind a meal. Though seemingly meager, the humble herbs carry the essence of love, which turns a simple meal into a veritable feast for the soul. On the contrary, a table laden with the finest cuts of meat becomes a barren land if served with resentment and hatred.
It's not about the abundance on our plates but the abundance in our hearts. This principle echoes throughout the tapestry of scriptures, reminding us that the most genuine connections are built over shared meals infused with love and understanding.
Jesus often used meals as moments of profound teaching. Be it the Last Supper or the breakfast by the shores of Galilee after His resurrection, food played a significant role. These meals were about physical nourishment and spiritual communion, reinforcing relationships and sharing love.
The next time you sit down for a meal, be it a simple salad or a sumptuous roast, take a moment to reflect. Is this meal seasoned with the secret ingredient - love? Are the hearts gathered around your table in unity? Ultimately, it's not the grandeur of the feast but the grandness of the feelings of the heart that matter.
To live by the wisdom of Proverbs 15:17 is to prioritize love above all else. To embrace simplicity when it's filled with sincerity. To cherish the times when our tables, though lacking in luxury, overflow with love.
As you ponder this thought, I'd like to leave you with a gentle call to action: Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and invite love to be your guest of honor. Experience the transformation it brings to your table's food, hearts, and souls.
In my kitchen, love is always the secret ingredient in every dish. Remember, no matter the meal's humility, it becomes a banquet for the soul when served with love.
#God #Christ #Love #Hope #Faith #Nourishment
Love makes a meal so much more enjoyable!