You make grass grow for cattle; you make plants for human farming in order to get food from the ground, and wine, which cheers people’s hearts, along with oil, which makes the face shine, and bread, which sustains the human heart. — Psalm 104:14-15
My family looks forward to an annual tradition. Once a year we go to a fancy restaurant (Annie Gunn’s) and splurge. We order appetizers, entrees, and desserts that are amazing–not just taste-wise but appearance-wise as well. Throughout the year I put back extra money into what we now call our “Annie Gunn’s” fund. It’s a great investment in our family life.
In our recent dinner, just after the entrees were served, I paused. I looked at my wife, son, and daughter as they excitedly dug into their once-in-a-year food, and I felt a warm sense of appreciation deep inside. It came from knowing that I provided something so amazing for them to enjoy. Their enjoyment deepened my own. I guess that’s what any spouse/parent feels when they provide something special for those they love.
And I wonder if God doesn’t feel the same way. The psalmist expressed it beautifully. When the Creator abundantly provides food and drink for every living thing and sees them enjoying it, making “the face shine,” then the divine heart warms and a broad grin grows.
My family thanked me for providing this meal. They didn’t need to, though, because I enjoyed giving it to them. But they knew it came about because of a bit of a sacrifice on my part, and it was nice to hear the gratitude. And I bet God enjoys it when we take time to pause and give thanks before a meal.
Maybe when Jesus prayed to the Father, “…give us today our daily bread,” he was telling us that we need to remember just how generous and loving our Parent really is. Let’s warm His heart and broaden His smile.
That was lovely Greg. Thank you
A lovely treat.
Great as always, Greg. Thank you.