I am urged to speak about the importance of nourishing your bodies with good food, and how any foods that do not satisfy the mind or body are only welcome in scarce circumstances. In the journey of life, your physical well-being is intertwined with your spiritual and emotional health. Therefore, I invite you to consider the food you consume and the impact it has on your overall health and wellbeing.
Food is a gift from the Divine, a source of fuel and pleasure that should be enjoyed with gratitude. It goes beyond fuel when it complements the body and what it needs to thrive as blessings of life. As you partake in the act of eating, I urge you to do so with intention and awareness.
Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. It is a sacred vessel that houses your spirit and should be treated with love and respect. Just as you strive to purify your soul, you should also strive to nourish your body with wholesome and nutritious foods, to keep it in prime condition.
II encourage you to view food as a sacred gift, an opportunity to nourish your bodies. It is a time for thanks, and true mindfulness as you consume each mouthful of goodness. Choose foods that support your well-being and honor the intricate web of life. Embrace a balanced approach that allows for joy and celebration, while also caring for your body and the world around you.
If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land (Isaiah 1:19). Only here will you find the nutrients that were destined to reach your body.
“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work” (John 4:34). What nourished Me was helping those who were in need, and I continue that quest to this day.
The choices you make regarding what you eat can have a profound impact on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Opt for foods that are fresh, natural, and unprocessed whenever possible. Seek out fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, for they provide nourishment and vitality to your body.
I encourage you to approach your meals with mindfulness. Slow down, savor each bite, and truly taste the flavors and textures of everything you consume. Be present and grateful that your plate is full, free from distractions, and look above to give thanks for the nourishment before you. When you eat alone, you can take the time to absorb each bite. Not only enjoying your meals more fully but also becoming attuned to the signals of hunger and fullness, allowing you to maintain a balanced relationship with food.
I also want to caution against becoming overly obsessed with food or falling into the trap of restrictive diets. Give yourself a chance to taste the sweet treats that the world offers, only then will you really value the vitamin enriched foods grown from the soil. Food should not be a source of anxiety or guilt but rather a source of joy and sustenance where possible.
Consider the impact of your food choices on the world around you. Embrace a lifestyle that promotes sustainability and compassion for all living beings, strengthening you in return. Choose foods that are ethically sourced, support local farmers and artisans, and minimize harm to the environment.
I, too, shared meals with my disciples and celebrated the bounty of creation. I shared the simple nourishment of bread and wine, not only as fuel, but as a symbol of spiritual communion and unity. In partaking of a meal together, you strengthen your connections with others, foster community, and extend My love and hospitality through them.
“Love what comes to your plate, and forever be grateful.”