As He did at the feeding of the five thousand so also did He at the feeding of the four thousand. (Matt. 15:36). As He had done in His state of humiliation, even so also did He after His resurrection from the dead, when He blessed the food in the presence of the two disciples at Emmaus. Though all are familiar with these passages, yet, how great is the number of them that sit down to meat and rise again like brutes that comprehend nothing of gratitude to God. Even in this the rich, of whom one would naturally expect greater appreciation, because they have every cause for such, frequently distinguish themselves from others to their lasting shame; as if they, favored of God with greater earthly possessions and the gift of appreciation, had less reason to thank God;

or, as though God owed them life and food; or, as though they were too good to be thankful and needed God's grace no longer. Verily it brings shame and disgrace upon the Church of Christ, when Christians, -Christ's servants and followers,neglect their duties so flagrantly and have no more a spirit of praise and thanksgiving in them; and, it is high time that every one who deserves correction shall permit himself to be sincerely corrected through God's Word and Spirit.

GRACE BEFORE MEAT.

18.

The Benedicite.

Let children and the whole family approach the table reverently and with folded hands, saying:

The eyes of all wait upon Thee,

O Lord; and Thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest

Thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing.

Then shall be said the Lord's Prayer, and after that this prayer:

O Lord God, Heavenly Father, bless us and these Thy gifts which we receive from Thy loving kindness, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

(Luther's Smaller Catechism.)

19.

LORD God, our Heavenly Father,

for Thy gracious gifts with which Thou hast again so faithfully provided us, we render praises and thanksgiving. We beseech Thee, grant us to enjoy these benefits reverently and in true gratitude, unto our strengthening, to Thy praise and the help and service of

GRACIOUS Father, Who feedest

and nourishest every creature,

feed and nourish our souls and bodies that we may not abuse Thy gifts; but, that we be rather quickened by the same unto the glory of Thy name; unto all honest toil and every good work; to live and move before Thee in righteousness and innocence. Amen.

21.

(1562.)

BLESSED be God, Who has sus

tained us from earliest infancy, and giveth meat unto all flesh. May He fill our hearts with joy and gladness, granting what our needs demand at all times; and, that we be satisfied with His provision. Amen.

2

22.

DAILY BIBLE LESSONS.

From Spangenberg's Spiritual Economy.
For an entire Week. 1561.

SUNDAY.

WEDNESDAY.

1. Luke 11:37-42. 1. John 21:1-14.

After meat, let the children and the entire family fold their hands reverently and say:

O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy endureth forever. He giveth food to all flesh: