ON GRACE BEFORE AND AFTER MEALS

[T]he various kinds of food, suitable to the needs of our bodies, are due to the provision of the great Steward of the Universe. Before a meal let grace be said, in recognition alike of the gifts which God gives now, and which He keeps in store for time to come. Say grace after a meal in gratitude for gifts given and in petition for gifts promised.

--Saint Basil the Great; from his Letter to Gregory