Posted on December 26, 2010 at 7:31 PM //
I watched a video today that may have changed my life. The video was about a man who left the comfort of the United States and all it has to offer; water, fast food, tv, money, etc. for Africa to save children. He is saving children from slavery, sex trafficking, mutilation, starvation, loneliness, and ultimately death. Every part of this video hit me hard, but as I was shoveling leftover chili into my mouth at lunch I remembered something specific. The man said these children have most likely never eaten to satisfaction.
Three bites into my meal I remembered this. I stared at my spoonful of chili and then gently laid it down. Next, I said grace. I repented for being ungrateful. I repented for being selfish. And I thanked God for providing.
I thought about the numerous meals, especially this holiday season, where I have eaten to beyond satisfaction, even to a state of being miserable. Miserable?! I eat until I am miserable?! These children and adults don’t even know what it is to be on the verge of satisfaction, and I have the ability to eat until I can’t stand to eat anymore.
Grace- a short prayer before or after a meal, in which a blessing is asked and thanks are given.
Thank God today for everything you have, even the smallest things that you don’t think are important. Then ask God for blessing, but not just your own. Think of someone else who needs blessing and ask God to give it to them.
This video has made my head spin. I don’t think I will ever look at food the same way. I will say grace at every meal, shouting praises to Him. Psalm 63:5 (MSG)- I eat my fill of prime rib and gravy; I smack my lips. It’s time to shout praises!
Written by Tess Hemphill
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