This Thanksgiving, I set the table for three.
The table is set; the oven is warm; the slow cooker smells of cinnamon
sticks, nutmeg and cloves. It’s Thanksgiving.
I’m hosting for a small party of three today — just my mom, dad and me. The menu is nourishing and simple: chicken roasted in avocado oil with sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts and apples; coconut-flour biscuits; Instant Pot cranberry-apple sauce; and warm pumpkin custard with coconut whipped topping. It’s anything but traditional and if you ask me, that’s lovely.
As I planned the menu and the day, I made the word “nourish” my mantra. Being nourishing to others and oneself doesn’t happen by accident; it’s an intentional effort. As the day approached I caught myself leveling up, thinking what I could [should] add.
T hen I’d remind myself: Nourish, Alissa.
Remember the story of Mary and Martha? (Luke 10:38-42) When Jesus arrives at Martha’s home, she hurriedly works to make everything perfect for Him. All the while, her sister Mary sits at Jesus’ feet. When Martha complains of Mary’s neglect for doing her share of the work, Jesus replies, “Martha, Martha ... you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed — or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (10:41-42)
In a world that rewards busyness, how do I practice a “Mary” mindset? It’s simple (but not easy).
S o today, I’m choosing to be unconventional and simple as I sit at
Jesus’ feet enjoying the best part of Thanksgiving — family.
Because God moves through a table setting for three.
I’m hosting for a small party of three today — just my mom, dad and me. The menu is nourishing and simple: chicken roasted in avocado oil with sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts and apples; coconut-flour biscuits; Instant Pot cranberry-apple sauce; and warm pumpkin custard with coconut whipped topping. It’s anything but traditional and if you ask me, that’s lovely.
As I planned the menu and the day, I made the word “nourish” my mantra. Being nourishing to others and oneself doesn’t happen by accident; it’s an intentional effort. As the day approached I caught myself leveling up, thinking what I could [should] add.
Remember the story of Mary and Martha? (Luke 10:38-42) When Jesus arrives at Martha’s home, she hurriedly works to make everything perfect for Him. All the while, her sister Mary sits at Jesus’ feet. When Martha complains of Mary’s neglect for doing her share of the work, Jesus replies, “Martha, Martha ... you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed — or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (10:41-42)
In a world that rewards busyness, how do I practice a “Mary” mindset? It’s simple (but not easy).
Because God moves through a table setting for three.
Grandma Elaine's china dishes
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