Growing up, mealtimes in my home were always an important aspect of FAMILY LIFE. I remember times as a little girl, sitting with my mom, long after the meal was over, where we would continue to “pick” at the leftovers while we engaged in meaningful, life conversations. It’s where I learned the VALUE of FAMILY….it’s where I gained the valuable lessons of life, learning from my mom and feeling cared for.
As I grew up, I attempted to carry these same traditions into my own family. Whether it was simply for the sake of hitting “pause” on the demands of our schedules to the purpose of fueling our bodies, we’ve made it a point to sit, at the end of each day, together as a family around “the ‘ole oak table”! I believe our children have come to find value here as well.
The motivation for these times around the table has gone from everything for giving sustenance to our bellies to nourishing our hearts and souls. Some times have brought forth CELEBRATION (and much laughter) while other times have given space to sharing the burdens (and maybe even some tissues) of the day…
All in all, it is where the love of family has been most carefully protected and nurtured.
Scripture calls the woman who puts forth the great effort to nurture her home a “woman of strength” Proverbs 31:10-31….her strength coming from the Lord...”Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33
It is a precious gift that God betows upon us, His daughters, a gift that is to be treasured in our hearts when we are blessed with the privilege of partnering with God in the nurturing of our homes. It comes with great intentionality to turn off the noises that distract us and to work to create an air of calm and peace…a place for allowing conversations to form that help to build relationships, express love and provide encouragement. Mealtimes around the table can be that sacred space where we accept the invitation that God has given to “Come To The Table” and offer Him praise and thanksgiving.
Would love to hear what you’re favorite mealtime traditions are? What memories come to mind as you reflect on times spent around your “‘ole oak table”?! Please feel free to share in the comments below! May we glean creative ideas from each other that serve to bring encouragement and help to further God’s purpose for the FAMILY!
- Healthy Menu Tip: Try keeping this “visual” in mind when preparing meals for your family…..Divide a typical nine-inch plate into these three sections: (1) fruits and vegetables (50%), (2) protein 25%, and (3) starch 25%
In Thanks to God,
Stacey
livinginrhythmsofgrace.blog 
Beautiful….so beautiful! I am ever thankful for the legacy that you have established within our home that encourages the dinner table to bring so much more than just a meal…it has brought us togheter….kept us strong when we are feeling weak….kept us sane when the stressors of this world are pressing in….kept us humble….and it has shown us the true beauty of friendship, family and love. Thank You!
I miss those dinners around the ol’ oak table….I’ll be back soon, so save a spot for me! Xoxo