What it means to share a meal...

We were so blessed this Thanksgiving to be away from close family and friends. I know what you are thinking...that doesn't sound like a very nice "thanksgivingy" thing to say. Of course, it is always a blessing to see family and friends and to be "home" for the holidays, but God had other plans for us this Christmas. We got to share a meal and be family for others. We didn't go down to a shelter to serve a meal or anything, but we were blessed to open our homes to some who could not be with family and some who do not know Jesus. I loved cooking all day long and feeling our home with those familiar aromas that remind us of comfort and love and security and inviting those into our home who may not experience that in their own lives. We had a small group, but we ate and laughed. Austin got to share some Bible stories with someone who had never heard them. We talked about traditions and what holidays should be about. We allowed those who are lonely to seek solace in our home. Sharing a meal meant sharing ourselves, our time, and our family here with those who are without. It was the best thing that we could have done for our Thanksgiving. Austin and I dialogued over our own thankfulness this morning and we wouldn't have had this Thanksgiving or this year any other way. We may not be rich, but it felt good to give of what we do have... a meal!