If you’re hosting a potluck this holiday season or planning a potluck at work, you may be wondering how to keep the conversation peaceful and, dare I say it, civil. Because, let’s be honest, let’s face the reality that interactions between family, friends, and colleagues can sometimes lead to inappropriate or uncomfortable conversations. We’ve all had those experiences, and we’ve all had people in our lives who don’t necessarily understand healthy boundaries.
Uncle Bob brings up the latest conspiracy theory, a cousin asks a question a little too personal, the little kids ask about Aunt Betty’s “old” boyfriends, and the conference room goes silent as an overtly open coworker pours out all her family traumas. Awkward.
So how do we meet at a holiday table lavishly decorated with turkeys and all manner of accoutrements with the intention of having gratitude and meaningful conversation? Now, if you’re playing hostess this year and the wayward conversation is feeling a little stressful…don’t worry. There are some creative ways to keep your loved ones entertained at the dinner table, even if your out-of-place comments result in side glances.
Use these prayers, blessings, and conversation starters to calm tensions and avoid unhealthy conversations. If you print it out or keep a few in your hip pocket, you can refer to it when the conversation gets a little heated or when the topic goes off topic. The best part is that it is suitable for all age groups and can be adapted to different gatherings and events.
Pocket prayers for peace, unity, and gratitude
Father, as we gather around the table and share this meal, may we focus on the rich blessings you have graciously bestowed upon us. Help me to rejoice, be grateful, and honor Your faithfulness and provision. Amen.
God, we are humbled by your gracious love and steadfast peace. Grant us peace and provide us with opportunities to interact with family and friends and instill unity in our homes and offices. Amen.
O Jesus, Prince of Peace, you alone are holy and worthy of all glory for your divine love, which embodies mercy, grace and mercy. Please come together today and help us share that love and kindness with others. Amen.
Lord, we welcome You and Your Holy Spirit at the dinner table. It is solely because of your provision that we gather together to break bread and enjoy the fruits of the harvest. We welcome you to our conversation and ask you to lead us in love and peace. Amen.
Thank you, God. Thank You for Your peace, which passes all understanding, and for the blessings and promises scattered throughout Your Word to restore our identity and inheritance that we will receive in Your kingdom. And I would like to thank my family and friends gathered here today for their blessings. We offer our gratitude to you, God. Amen.
A promise to a grateful heart
As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let us reflect on all the promises God has given us as His beloved children. Read, recite, and reflect on these as a family or during quiet time.
God promises peace and comfort.
As members of one body, you are called to peace, so let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. And be grateful. Colossians 3:15
I leave you peace. I give you my peace. I will not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your heart be troubled or afraid. John 14:27
“These things I have spoken to you, that you may have peace in me. In this world you will have trouble; but take heart, for I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
God promises a lasting, steadfast love that will last forever.
Let us be thankful to the Lord, for He is good. His love lasts forever. Psalm 136:1
But God reveals His love for us through this. While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
Because of the Lord’s great love, we will never perish. For the Lord’s mercy never fails. They are new every morning. Your faithfulness is great. Lamentations 3:22-23
God promises provision and protection.
No weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the inheritance of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me, says the Lord.Isaiah 54:17
And my God will supply all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1
God promises eternal hope.
And this is what God has promised us: eternal life. 1 John 2:25
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. John 3:16-17
In the hope of eternal life, promised at the beginning of time by a God who never lies. Titus 1:2
Table Talk: Thanksgiving Conversation Starters
Here are some fun and easy-going dinner conversation starters. You can pick and choose a few or print the entire list to open lines of communication. Maybe you’ll learn something new about a loved one and add a little laughter to the mix to add some joy to the season.
So go ahead and fill your home with lively conversation. Even the most awkward and nervous people in conversation will come to understand the importance of meaningful, heartfelt interactions.
What is your favorite Thanksgiving food that you can eat every day and never get tired of? Do you have a childhood holiday memory that you wish you could relive? What is your favorite holiday scent? Why? If you could go back to any holiday in the past, which year would you revisit? Who brings you joy? Where in the world would you like to go? Why? If you could invite anyone from your past to your dinner table, who would it be? What is the best gift you’ve ever received? Share about your favorite holiday tradition. What qualities do you think make a good friend?Tell me about the last thing you bought that brought you great joy. Fill in the blank: “God has truly blessed me this year by _____________.” What do you like most about your home, community, or neighbor? What is your favorite Christmas song? Why? What compliment has made you really smile? Describe the best quality about the person sitting on your left. If you could live anywhere, where would it be? Why? What is one way you can share kindness this season? Share positive affirmations. It’s the person on the right. If you received $1 million today, what would you do? If you were stuck in an elevator with someone, who would it be? What is the reason? What are some simple things that bring you peace and comfort during the holidays? Describe a time when God answered your prayers. Who has influenced your life this season and how? What do you want to accomplish next year?
Photo credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/Drazen Zigic
Alicia Searle is a dedicated author, blogger, and speaker who is passionate about pouring out her heart and leading women of all ages to Jesus. She has an academic background and holds a master’s degree in reading and writing. Her loved ones call her Mama. So much of her time is spent cheering them on at softball games and dance classes. She’s married to her crush (a tall, spiky-haired blonde) who can make a mean latte. She writes her heart on the page while sipping on the deliciousness as the puppy licks her paws. Visit her website aliciasearl.com and connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.
