Dinnertime has become a cherished part of my family’s day. I can only appreciate it so well because of two things:
- I know the emptier alternative of grabbing a bite on the go.
- My Russian husband does the cooking. He finds cooking a great way to unwind after work. I can’t relate.
While he cooks, I mom. My daughter craves a snuggle during a Little House on the Prairie episode. She needs that downtime. I love that I get to share it with her as the smell from a simmering stew drifts our way.
But there’s a third thing I cherish:
- Dinner table conversations—whether it comes from a question pulled out of a bowl or a candlelit prayer.
Dinner is the one time in our day we are all face to face with no disruptions. It’s our time to see each other clearly—our struggles, our triumphs, our hearts’ longings. We see them as we pray our most pressing needs of the day. And in the thanking for what touches us. We see each other more deeply as we open the tops of our heads and let each other peek in when we answer a question drawn out of a bowl.
Benefits
There are several benefits of family mealtime prayers:
Connecting with Gratitude
At its core, mealtime prayer is an expression of gratitude. It’s an acknowledgment of the abundance of God and the efforts of those who brought the food to the table, from farmers and cooks to family members who may have contributed to the meal’s preparation. By taking a moment to pause and give thanks, we cultivate an attitude of appreciation for what we receive.
Cultivating Mindfulness
In the rush of everyday life, it’s easy to consume meals mindlessly, scarcely aware of the tastes, textures, and aromas that surround us. Mealtime prayers encourage mindfulness by inviting us to slow down and savor the present moment. They remind us to be fully present at the table, engaging all our senses in the act of eating and connecting with loved ones.
Bonding Traditions
Mealtime prayers serve as a way to bond while passing down traditions from generation to generation. Through rituals like these, we preserve our Christian heritage and instill values central to our identity. Whether it’s reciting a traditional prayer by candlelight, or everyone pitching in off-the-cuff, families can forge a deeper connection during mealtime.
From the snuggle to the shared dish washing, I have a huge opportunity to disciple my daughter. I should be discipling her all the time. But at the dinner table, my focus is honed in. My attention is not divided. My family—and my God—get 100%.
Mealtime Prayers You Can Start Today
If you’d like to add a prayer routine to your dinners, here are some simple and kid-friendly ones to get you started.
For food and all Your gifts of love,
We give You thanks and praise.
Look down, Oh Jesus, from above,
and bless us all our days.
Amen.
Father, bless the food we take,
and bless us all for Jesus’ sake.
Amen.
Come, Lord Jesus, be our Guest,
and let these gifts to us be blessed.
May our souls by You be fed,
ever on the Living Bread.
Amen.
God bless not the food and drink,
but what we do and what we think.
and grant for all our work and play,
that we may love you more each day.
Amen.
God our Father, Lord, and Savior,
thank you for your love and favor.
Bless this food and drink we pray,
and all who share with us today.
Amen.
In a world filled with distractions and busyness, mealtime prayers offer families a sacred pause—a moment to come together, express gratitude, and connect with one another and a God greater than themselves.
So, go ahead. Nourish their spirits. Foster deeper bonds. And root them deeply in their Creator.
Enjoy our prayers, fellow Pioneer, and let us know how its going!
Until next time—no matter what territory you’re navigating—keep pioneering the legacy!
If you liked this post, check out our post on Christian Family Rhythms: Habits of the Household.