The “E” in B.L.E.S.S.

Written by Karen Wilson

There’s a good reason the Bible references food and meals over a thousand times. Food brings fellowship, comfort, and blessing. Meals have a way of drawing people together unlike anything else.

Sharing a meal, whether by dropping off food, picking up groceries, or inviting others to sit down and eat together, is an opportunity to extend God’s love in a tangible way. It also serves as a reminder of His daily provision and care.

After both of my children were born, the thought of having to cook was overwhelming. I never realized the power of simply being blessed with not having to think about planning, cooking, or cleaning up a meal. Each time someone showed up at our door with dinner, I could feel the love of God. It wasn’t just about the food, it was about the thought, the care, and the reminder that I wasn’t alone. Providing a meal for someone meets a very real need. Those who are sick, grieving, overwhelmed, or even celebrating can experience God’s love in a practical way. A meal can quietly say, “You’re not alone. God sees you.”

Meals also have a unique way of breaking down barriers. Sharing food opens doors to deeper relationships and creates space for conversation and connection. In the Bible, meals weren’t only about eating; they were about belonging. Jesus often used meals to welcome, to teach, and to reveal God’s heart for people. When we sit down across the table from someone, listen to their story, and remind them that they matter, we are living out that same kind of ministry. And it doesn’t have to be elaborate. Community can be built over takeout pizza just as much as a home-cooked meal.

The Bible is full of examples of God using meals to display His love. Abraham welcomed three strangers with a meal: “Let me get you something to eat so you can be refreshed…” (Gen. 18:5). Jesus found countless opportunities to dine with others. He prepared breakfast for His disciples after a long night of fishing (John 21:9). He ate with tax collectors and sinners—people others considered unworthy (Luke 5:29–32). And the early church “broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people” (Acts 2:46–47). Meals are woven into God’s story as a way to connect, restore, and remind people of His care.

Even today, gathering around a meal is a natural way to bond. That one meal might spark a friendship or provide the encouragement someone needs to feel connected to the body of Christ. It may even invite a conversation about faith with someone who doesn’t yet know Jesus. When we invite others to our table, we create a space where God’s love can be seen and felt.

And it doesn’t have to be complicated! You can sign up to provide a meal on a meal train. Surprise a neighbor with an invitation to a cookout. Hand someone a DoorDash gift card if cooking isn’t your strength. Tuck a note of encouragement or a favorite Bible verse alongside the food you bring. These simple acts imitate Jesus, who invited people to the table and used meals as a picture of His kingdom. It may seem small, but small things often become the biggest blessings.

The next time you hear of a need, or perhaps just sense a nudge from the Holy Spirit, Think about how you can bless someone with a meal. The food doesn’t have to be fancy or perfect. God uses ordinary circumstances to show His extraordinary love. 

Hebrews 13:2 Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing so some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. 

Hebrews 13:16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.