I can't stand taking phone calls when I am talking to people. And usually, unless it's work related and I know the number means I need to answer, I try to avoid doing so. But, I fall into the trap all too often... especially with texting. Same when eating. I think that being grateful for real relationships, and really being grateful for good food and the fruit of the earth that God has given means trying to be really present - present to the people in our lives, the people we are with at the moment, and the good gifts around us. Thanks to some of those restaurant and bookstore owners who know the value of what they are providing is not merely in the register, but in the environment they are trying to create - a place in which people can be truly present to what they are doing and where they are at the time. We don't give that kind of attention as much as we should, especially when we are spending time with people who are important to us, or doing something really important (and that includes driving)!
Jesus, the more I read and study the Word, I see had a knack for doing just that - for really being present to the people around him, noticing them, noticing not just externals, but looking deep within. Jesus used meals as time to share intimately with some of those he loved - the ones that took time to be with him. I wonder if there had been cell phones in his day, what kind of attention the disciples would have paid him. I can just imaging Peter texting someone "OMG, JC says wine=blood.
LOL!" Or, Judas, "Hold on Garden Coup, seder taking 4-ever!". Instead, Jesus shared with the disciples that night what has become the sacrament of giving thanks, the sacrament of the kind of hospitality that is authentic presence to guests: the euacharist - the thanksgiving.
This Thanksgiving week, I am going to try to give thanks by practicing being authentically present to moment, and the people and beauty around me at the time, and will be intentional to let God know that I appreciate being, and being here.
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