The scene was too familiar. I have seen it repeated hundreds if not thousands of times. At times I have been a lead character in the play, despite my best attentions.
“I’m hungry.”
“I know. We will be home soon. You can have something to eat then.”
“I am hungry now!”
“I know. I hear you. Please be patient. Soon you will have something to eat.
“I cannot wait! I am hungry.”
“I would give you something if I had it. Please, you are going to have to wait.”
“Now. I need to eat now!”
The most recent example was a young child. The only thing he could see, feel, and understand was his hunger. Nothing else made sense. Words were meaningless. Actions pointless. The only think on his mind was food.
I do not know how his story ended. Did it get worse before it got better? Did his situation overwhelm everyone around him? Was he satisfied once he ate something, anything?
Metaphorically I can relate the recurring story on many levels. I am thirsty and hungry for so many things. Food is in the mix however it is not the most urgent thing that I need and want. As I think of them, letting each desire and need go in my life, I realize that my prayer has taken on a twist. My prayer for you and me is “to eat our fill at the banquet you [God] spread as you fill our tankards with Eden spring water.” (Psalm 36.8) I want to be filled with whatever it is that Divinity things I need the most – be it peace, assurance, food, or relationship. Whatever it is, I want it, now.
I am tired of the grind. I am fatigued by the constant longing within. I am hungry! I want something, anything, now. Whatever is needed to make this a reality, I want to do that thing. We have thirsted and gone hungry long enough. It is time to be filled – from the heart outwards, from our souls to our physical bodies. I am hungry.
