One

Two came from the East, two came from the South, three came from the West, and two were occupants. A hundred years ago a bell would have sounded, echoing far and wide calling them in. As it is today, a cell phone replaces the purpose of ringing the bell. A designated time is a standard standing order at each of the gatherings. While the occupants busied themselves preparing for the spread, others gradually flowed into the home. The chatter of voices became louder and louder as more arrived. Clatter of pots, bowls, and dishes provided evidence the festivities were about to begin. The table was set. The attendants were as anxious as horses at a feeding trough. There was One more still on their way.

Waiting on the One wasn't an option for the bellies rumbling in the room. Not wanting to further delay, the announcement was made, 'Come and eat'. With feet scuffling across the floor, places were taken. We were missing the pitter patter of one set of feet. They belonged to a wee bit of child only three years old. Leaving the John Deere tractors, and other equipment, was just too much to ask of the child. The others gathered at the table bowed their heads to give thanks to the Lord for the food. 

After a heart to heart talk with the mother, the child climbed onto a stool that served as a perch for him to reach the plate. After mother and child were comfortable, someone at the table made the mistake of mentioning the prayer had already been said. The child's face broke, lips turned down, and tears began to flow. It had become tradition for the child to say the blessing with the assistance of an adult. He'd missed saying the prayer. What do you do when a three year olds lips turn down, and tears flow, because of missing the opportunity to pray? That's right, all the bowls and spoons already in hands were sat down. Heads were bowed again, and a second prayer of thanksgiving was attempted. I say attempted because all we heard was 'I say prayer, I say prayer'. When the child was given the prompt to thank God for the food or thank God for the people sitting around the table, there was only silence. On this night it was ok, for his heart had been broken. Sometimes it's just difficult to be thankful. Another prompting for the child, and a very loud 'AMEN' was said. Bowls and spoons were picked up. The passing and dipping continued. Considering all the activity, the One still coming had better hurry.

A cell phone was used to call the remaining One. The sound of a dinner bell could not have ever reached the One. He had been about 70 miles away. Thank goodness for modern conveniences to call the One. Even with a pick up truck, the One said it would still be about 30 minutes before their arrival. If it were by wagon they were traveling, it certainly would have taken half a day. 

After filling their rumbling bellies, conversation floated around the table. Dessert made those who partake appear they were under sedation. Pecan pie seems to have that affect at times. The gathering flowed from the dining table into the living room, for a more comfortable seat. Dirty dishes were carried away.  Remaining food was set on the stove, to keep warm for the One still coming. As people started making plans to leave, the One arrived. A plate was filled. Sweet tea was poured. The One sat at the table and filled his belly.