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Day 9
Would you not rather say to [your servant], 'Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink; later you may eat and drink.' --Luke 17:8 We are sometimes so hungry for our meal we are salivating for it even before it is on the plate. We give little thought to anything but fulfilling our desire. We can be so easily obsessed with food that we miss the miracle of eating. Even when the food is delectable and we are hungry. We are so anxious to scarf up the food that in our anxiety we forget to be mindful and grateful for each fork-full of nourishment. Imagine being the servant who must wait for their own food until all have been served and all have eaten. Imagine being hungry yourself, smelling the juicy odors, wanting at least a little to ‘tide you over.’ Imagine the fulfillment when you are finally able to take your first bite. The tastes would linger on your tongue, and your soul would expand in gratitude. A measure of detachment from desire for food is necessary to be fully fed. Try taking just a small portion of ordinary food, preferably only one kind of food – a bowl of steamed rice, a cup of peaches, a small plate of bacon, or a carton of yogurt, for example – then, just as you’re ready to begin eating, set the food aside for 15 minutes. Use the time to care for someone else’s needs. After 15 minutes, return to your small portion of food and eat it slowly, mindfully, gratefully. Watch how your soul settles in quiet contentment and soft joy. O God, as the sky drops down rain to give drink to the thirsty earth, let my soul be the thirsty ground of your love. These meditations by Renee Miller first appeared at explorefaith.org Please use the share button at the top to share with friends and loved ones. Thanks!
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