The Devil at your Dinner Table
by Rita Davidson
The Devil at your Dinner Table
by Rita Davidson
You’ve seen it. “Mom he kicked me”
“I did not!”
“Yes, you did, your lying!”
“You retard, I’m not lying, you are!”
“Don’t call me a retard, your a retard!”
“yeah, you want to prove it?” as an arm reaches across the table.
This all lasted but about 10 seconds, and you just ‘catch up’ to the conflict as that arm comes up and you stop it there. Or you try.
Have you see this? Well, I hate to say it, but this is a very similar dinner table exchange at our house. :sigh:
We have 4 boysj (3 girls) including a busy 3 year old and sitting at a dinner table is not the easiest thing to do on most days. With our three oldest boys with autism, our dinner table can be, well a real zoo. Sensitive ears from their autism for sounds, extra smacking from another, and the misinterpreting of words and looks. This all speaks of a real challenge for them everyday.
This one day, as this exchange was being repeated, it struck me how the devil loves to get us all riled up. Whether this is the case at your dinner table, or not, bear with me for a moment. Think of how much he enjoys stirring up confusion at the dinner table, that most valued time of day, after a long day. When you hear the children really going at it, all you can think is, “This is not the Holy Family is it?” Frankly it can be really discouraging.
But, have hope, for one thing, I think most families have to deal with this at one time or another. We just might be seeing it more often. And before you start believing that your family is all washed up, realize that even the best of children need some guidance.
But also realize that the devil is never far behind in trying to test our patience. Remember, he is busy seeking the souls of you and your children at every moment. He seeks no other jewel, but to see you all torn from the mercy of God. While maybe the dinner table is just a natural family interaction let it be a real reminder to you of how easy the devil can stir things up. Just look at the Church today to see the wreckage. And remember, how he especially has his eyes set on your children.
As much as you love your children, you cannot keep them forever. One day they will go out into the world without you. It’s frightening how fast this time flies. Dinner time is the perfect time not only to practice your patience, but also to strengthen up your resolve to love your children enough, so you will prepare them well for the coming battle.
So the next time your dinner table is a battleground, with quiet resolve, settle those lovely children. Show them your patience and your kindness at the worst of times, when you feel like loosing your cool.
Lastly, and the most important, remember to say a prayer to St. Michael before your meal. Surely this gallant Angel will be quick to come to your aid in times of need and you will gladly have him by your side for protection in the days ahead.
St. Michael, pray for us!
Has the devil been at your dinner table ?
©Copyright 2012 Rita Davidson All Rights Reserved.
Rita is a Catholic wife and mother of seven children. She reverted back to the faith when her oldest was making her First Communion. By then, she had completed degrees in Hairdressing and Make up artistry. She went on to receive a degree in Natural Health and another degree in Art. At age 26, Rita suffered a minor stroke. With no lasting effects, this dramatically changed her outlook on life. In 1996, Rita began ‘Little Flowers Family Apostolates’ to reach out to other families with her new found faith, by creating unique Catholic books and resources.. In 1999, she wrote the bestselling, ‘Immodesty; Satan’s Virtue’. She was editor of ‘The Catholic Health Letter’ for 7 years. She has been a homeschooling mom for 20+ years, and has written for various magazines. She is honored that families have trusted her with their questions, needs and concerns over the years. She continues to write and reach out to Catholic families with her husband, Mark and their 4 boys through http://www.LittleFlowersFamilyPress.com
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