CHAPTER 16 – GIVE US THIS DAY OUR DAILY BREAD

“Out of compassion you should do without your due allowance of food and clothing so that you may share with your less fortunate brothers and with the poor in general.” -St. Columba

“The Body of Christ and the Blood of Mary’s Son (Holy Communion) is a sure protection for the soul and a safe road to heaven. It has a wonderful power, it fosters purity and is the food which destroys all desires.” -St. Cormac

We live on a planet teeming with life, a vibrant ecosystem with countless creatures and the resources they depend on. As grateful inhabitants entrusted with caring for this Earth, the Coworkers of Christ approach food with intentionality and respect.

Our meals are not simply sustenance; they are a celebration of God’s providence. We choose simple, delicious dishes that honor the Earth’s bounty. We source local ingredients whenever possible, minimizing our ecological footprint. Avoiding waste and employing sustainable practices become expressions of our gratitude for the resources entrusted to us. But the true nourishment goes beyond the physical. Shared meals become a cornerstone of our community. Breaking bread together fosters fellowship, strengthens bonds, and allows us to express appreciation for the cook’s service. The act of cooking becomes an act of love, offering sustenance not just for the body, but also for the spirit.

By cultivating mindful eating habits and expressing gratitude for each bite, we not only nourish ourselves but also bear witness to the world. Our approach to food becomes a reflection of our values – care for creation, appreciation for God’s provision, and the joy of shared community.

Living on God’s providence doesn’t mean blind passivity. It’s an active trust, a belief that God sustains us through the work of our own hands and the generosity of nature. The Coworkers of Christ embrace a spirit of responsible stewardship when it comes to food production.

Many communities cultivate their own gardens, nurturing the soil and witnessing the miracle of life blossoming from a seed. This hands-on experience deepens our connection to the Earth and fosters a profound appreciation for the intricate dance between human effort and divine provision.

We also recognize the importance of responsible sourcing. Supporting local farmers who share our commitment to sustainable practices ensures the continued health of our ecosystem and allows us to participate in a network of mutual care.

Ultimately, our approach to food production is an act of faith. We plant the seeds, nurture the young plants, and trust in God’s providence to bring forth a bountiful harvest. This trust, coupled with responsible stewardship, allows us to live in harmony with creation and experience the joy of God’s abundant provision.

God’s providence extends far beyond the food on our plates though. It permeates every part of our lives, from the air we breathe to the relationships we cherish. As Coworkers of Christ, we strive to cultivate an awareness of these blessings in all aspects of our lives.

Living simply allows us to appreciate the true value of things. We avoid unnecessary consumption, recognizing that true fulfillment comes not from material possessions but from a deep connection with God and our community.

We approach work with a sense of purpose, seeing it as an opportunity to contribute to the greater good and an expression of gratitude for our talents. The fruits of our labor, whether financial or the satisfaction of a job well done, become further testaments to God’s providence in our lives.

By opening our eyes to the countless blessings that surround us – from the beauty of nature to the love of our companions – we cultivate a spirit of gratitude. This gratitude becomes the foundation for a life lived in joyful trust, recognizing God’s hand in all things.

Scriptural Support

And God said [to Adam and Eve,] “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth, and to every bird of the air, and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.” Gen. 1:29,30 (RSV)

Thou dost cause the grass to grow for the cattle, and plants for man to cultivate,

that he may bring forth food from the earth, and wine to gladden the heart of man,

oil to make his face shine, and bread to strengthen man’s heart. Ps. 104:14,15 (RSV)

The eyes of all look to thee, and thou givest them their food in due season. Thou openest thy hand, thou satisfiest the desire of every living thing. Ps. 145:15,16 (RSV)

I know and am persuaded in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; but it is unclean for any one who thinks it unclean. If your brother is being injured by what you eat, you are no longer walking in love. Do not let what you eat cause the ruin of one for whom Christ died. Rom. 14:14-17 (RSV)

For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving; for then it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer. 1 Tim. 4:4,5 (RSV)

Better is a dry morsel with quiet than a house full of feasting with strife. Prov. 17:1 (RSV)