Say Grace

Have you ever wondered why we call the prayer before our meals “grace?” The word grace has many meanings, such as simple elegance, refinement of movement, and courteous goodwill, among others. I couldn’t make the connection, so I looked up the Christian usage of the word. I learned that the word grace, when referring to prayer before a meal, comes from the Latin phrase gratiarum actio, which means “act of thanks.” I was reminded that grace, to Christians, also means the unmerited favor of God or a blessing.

It was then that I was able to make the connection. You might’ve noticed that it’s a bit of a two-sided coin: we say grace to give thanks for the grace God has shown to us. The concept of saying ‘grace’ was modeled by Jesus in Luke 24:30, which says, “When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them.” Likewise, Acts 27:35 says: “After he said this, he took some bread and gave thanks to God in front of them all. Then he broke it and began to eat.”

Here’s a question. Do you say grace before eating your meals? I admit that at times, I neglect to give thanks, especially when I think the meal that I am about to eat is coming from my hard-earned money rather than being provided by the gracious and generous hand of God.

Saints, I encourage us all to be mindful of the grace that has been shown to us when we choose to extend a prayer of grace in return to our faithful, loving God. May we share this heart of gratitude in every aspect of our lives with all of God’s people?

Let us Walk in His Way.

Dear Heavenly Father, as we focus on Your gift of grace to us, may we pray Your Word back to You. Psalm 104:27-28 says, “All creatures look to you to give them their food at the proper time. When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things.” Thank You, Lord, for all Your kindness to us. You provide for all our needs as our Good Shepherd who tends His flock. Please help us remember, as James 1:17 says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” Thank You, Lord, for every good gift You give. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

by Corinne “Kinney” deHamel

author of “Walk in His Way” for

Carry the Light Ministries