People have been asking me hard questions this holiday season that have made me think. Not the least of which is a question that goes something like this: Why in the world do you bake so much? I never have an answer. The words just won’t come that express how I feel. So, I’ve had to do some soul-searching this year, back to a few of my Christmas memories.
Christmas in the kitchen during my childhood was a very special place for our family. My mom would bake a lot of goodies, just as her mom had done years before. We would spend time together mid the flour and sugar with our rolling pins and cookie cutters… Some of my best and loveliest Christmas memories are centered on those times together in the kitchen.
How can I possibly create Christmas in my home, without spending time in my kitchen? Its just not possible.
I don’t suppose my mom really knew back then that our time around the baked goods was such a treasured gift that I would want to give away in abundance someday. But, isn’t that how giving works? I mean, really and truly – when someone gives generously to me- I always want to give away more.
As I dwell a bit more on this season of giving, I’m able to answer another question that has been circling around in my heart and mind this season. Why do I have such a desire to give gifts to my loved ones? It is complicated to have such a desire when I also don’t want to be materialistic and focused on earthly things so much. Well, I think I’ve caught a glimpse of the answer…
My Heavenly Father, gave the very best present when He sent His son. It was wild and extravagant affection for us that made Him do it – setting into motion His ultimate plan to redeem each person who calls on His name. Once I experienced His gift of love fully in my own heart, I became a giver too… When I realized how much He loves me and gives the very best gifts to His children, I wanted to become that same kind of person.
And so, I give from the heart of my kitchen… I love to bake for friends and family, not because they need to eat goodies. No, I spend time and energy, love and affection, mid the flour and sugar just the way my mom did with us – and I give it to those who I want to show love. And I am hopeful. Hopeful that, as I set the example of giving love during this season, that those who receive my gift will feel it to the very tips of their toes and become givers too.
Isn’t’ that what this life is about – giving my life and my love away to others freely- just as Christ did? Yes. I believe that it is. And that pretty much sums up the answer to the big question – I bake so much because the kitchen is where I can give away my love well.
May your Season of giving this Christmas be sweetened by the love of our precious Lord and Savior.
Merry Christmas.
daily portion 
Nicely said, Melody. I love how God has gifted you. Merry Christmas!!