Every time I sit down for a meal with my children or alone, I'm reminded of the benificence of God for the raw materials and gifting men and women who create the myriad of ways food can be prepared.

To my left on my desk here, I have a package of oatmeal from a box I purchased at local wholesale store. There are several flavors in sixty of those little packets, each a variety of a dry mix, but the same basic nutrition. I usually add fresh blueberries and a handful of raw steelcut cereal to that mix so I'm getting enough for my breakfast, and a balance of fiber, fruit, and protein. They are all enjoyable to eat, and I savor them for...well, probably no more than fifteen minutes! I just realized how quickly I sail through each one!

That verse in Ezekiel is a condensation of Psalm 23, the pastoral scene of plenty, relaxation, food, and safety. Cool luxuriant grass, a meadow in the late afternoon, and a few shade trees round out the peaceful scene!

I love sitting with my kids over our rather simple suppers, or a few minutes away from labor to savor my little salads and dressing at noon time. Every break and all the ingredients, someone prepared so I wouldn't have to! And I'm a lousy cook!

The Lord is my Shepherd is not a passing phrase, but a daily reminder to my children and me, that God takes care of our needs for sustenance! Gifted people with the imagination make those meals appetizing for us all! Thank You Lord for these rich pastures of your bounty, both material and spiritual!