Oh, give thanks to the Lord

Gene Edward Veith has been doing a series of posts on Luther's Small Catechism. Today he asks why the mealtime table prayers Luther specifies aren't more commonly used. It's a very good question. They are very good prayers.

PRAYER BEFORE EATING
The eyes of all wait upon You, O Lord, and You give them their food in due season; You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing.

Lord God, heavenly Father, bless us and these Your gifts which we receive from Your bountiful goodness, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

PRAYER AFTER EATING
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for His mercy endures forever.

We thank You, Lord God, heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, for all Your benefits, You who live and reign forever and ever. Amen.

Notice that the old practice was to pray TWICE at a meal. Before you start eating (the blessing) AND after you finish eating (giving thanks).

What’s with the common table prayer? — Cranach: The Blog of Veith