After sharing a wonderful “family” meal at church on Sunday, this post really touched me. How much we take for granted! We always think we can do it tomorrow or there will always be time for that later, but what if there isn’t? What if your world, as you know it, suddenly changes completely? What if tomorrow never comes? Will you have missed the opportunity to make a lasting impression on a loved one? Will a friend never know of your love for Jesus because you thought tomorrow might be a better time? Will you miss the opportunity to tell your husband/wife how much you love and appreciate them? (And no, it doesn’t matter that you don’t necessarily always LIKE them every minute!) Take a minute to take a deep breath and think about who needs to hear from you. An “I love you”, “ I’m thinking of you”, “you are in my prayers” or an “I’m sorry” might make a big difference in that person’s life.
To each and every one of you: I love you, I’m thinking of you, you are in my prayers and if I have ever hurt you in any way, I am so very sorry! Now, go pass it on. Someone is waiting to hear from you.
Pray for Jean
In His light,
Lois
Turn Ordinary Moments into Special Moments
(from The Daniel Plan Cookbook – Healthy Cooking for Life)
Sitting down to eat a meal together around the table is a great time to learn how everyone is doing. Whether you are enjoying a meal with friends on the weekend, or sitting down to a family supper during the week, mealtimes help people stay connected. With demanding schedules and a multitude of activities, it’s easy to see why plans to eat together can often get derailed. But shared meals are a practice you’ll want to preserve. Consider a meal a date with your loved ones, a reservation that reveals how much you care.
Take time at the table for everyone to share about what’s happening at school or work and talk about upcoming events. It’s a chance to listen and an opportunity to be heard. One approach that gets things started is called “highs and lows.” Each person talks about a high point and a low point of the day or week. Letting each person open up in this way often leads to deeper conversations. Then go around the table and affirm each other. You’ll be surprised how much you learn during just one meal!
Once a week or month, set the table for a party to celebrate milestones and special achievements. Designate a special plate or table decorations for the occasion. When you stop to think about it, there is always something to celebrate besides the big events of a birthday, graduation, or anniversary. Recognize an accomplishment at work or school, a deadline that was met, a new skill learned, an answered prayer, or a new friend made. Celebrating together is a joy generator. With a life full of commitments and obligations, isn’t it nice to welcome a little bliss whenever we can?
Take the leap. Set a schedule and send out the invitation. You’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. It’s just a healthy way to nurture the ones you love. At some point, take it a step further and invite others to join your family, perhaps a friend who lives alone, a neighbor who has recently divorced, or anyone who could use some loving care. Hospitality offers comfort and acceptance to whoever accepts the invitation. Open your door and your heart to share your meals and moments around the table. You will likely be inspired to make it an ongoing tradition.