Dear Friends in Christ,

“I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him,” Ephesians 1:17

Martin Luther: A Brief Word on Prayer

During our Fall gatherings, I have asked folks to share prayers that are meaningful to them. A number of morning, evening, and table prayers were shared. A few folks talked about the tradition of returning thanks after finishing a meal. Some had never heard of the tradition of “Returning Thanks”.

In the Concordia Publishing House edition of Luther’s Small Catechism (1986) there is a section entitled, Daily Prayers, which includes instruction for “Returning Thanks”. I would encourage you to memorize and pray this prayer as you finish your meal.

After eating, the children and members of the household shall, in like manner, reverently and with folded hands say:

Give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good. His mercy endures forever. He gives food to every creature. He provides food for the cattle and for the young ravens when they call. His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse, nor his delight in the legs of the warrior; the Lord delights in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love.

(Psalms 136:1, 25; 147:9-11)

Then shall be said the Lord’s Prayer and the following:

We thank You, Lord God, heavenly Father, for all Your benefits, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen.