easter song

we had some relatives from abroad whom we have not seen for ages, over for easter lunch today. it was a welcome reunion particularly with two elderly aunts whom we saw a lot of when we lived in philly. after eight years, they have gotten visibly older and quite frail-looking though still pretty much independent in their 70s.

we gathered around to pray before the meal.

arianna, read a short blessing from the box of card prayers as she usually does when we have guests over. father of love, send your grace upon us that we may have joy in each other; and having lived together in love here on earth, we may live forever with you in your eternal kingdom.

tita cora followed, praying in thanksgiving. thank you dear god for the gift of bringing us together after so many years, for the gift of family relationships which is forever, for the gift of love for each other, for the gift of health, and for the gift of easter, which is hope.

immediately after that, before everyone could head for the buffet, came a little voice, "my turn!" it sounded excited. it sounded eager. without any prodding, it was roque. and just like how he does it when we pray before meals as a nuclear family, he clasped his hands, closed his eyes tight, and sang his prayer. put your hands together we will pray, close your eyes. god is great and god is good. let us thank him for our food. and to that, everyone answered in unison. amen!

his unexpected prayer came at the perfect time as if on cue. it was just so apt, for it was certainly a prayer said before meals. it was refreshing because it came from a child who took the initiative to pray out loud, breaking into song, infront of many. it is true as most truths are brought forth with spontaneity. for indeed, god is great, and he is good. and singing this is like praying and praising him double.