Lenten Devotional 2026–Thursday, February 19

Jesus said also to the one who had invited him, “When you give a luncheon or a dinner, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, in case they may invite you in return, and you would be repaid. But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you, for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.” –Luke 14:12-14

At a recent Prayer Circle gathering Janet Sanders was inspired by Elena Huegel’s “A Dignity Cookbook.” Janet encouraged us to imagine setting a table for Humanity. We defined humanity as all of humankind, as well as the qualities of being kind, generous, compassionate, loving, & empathetic, to name a few. We explored what other “ingredients” as well as measurements might be included in a new recipe for our table.

I was reminded of all the Soup Group gatherings to make food for anyone in our community, the many food collections for A Place to Turn, the Veterans Dinner, homemade cookies for Communion & the Framingham Community Garden behind Jonathan House, that feeds so many in our community.

Our discussion also reminded us of a recipe submitted for the Edwards Church Cookbook, some years ago, by Jan Adams, on page 79. We are truly working at setting a table for Humanity. What might be included in your recipe?

 Joy Cake 

1 cup Joy
1/2 cup Obedience
1/2 cup of Kindness
1/2 cup Wisdom
1 teaspoon Service

Mix well & lovingly.