The Joy Of Baking

Read on December 17

Story provided by Sheila

“Who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began.” —2 Timothy 1:9

Sheila was a second grader when she received one of her favorite Christmas gifts of all time: a box filled with small bags of cake, muffin, and cookie mixes, accompanied by miniature baking pans. 

For days, Sheila prepared and baked each of the mixes in her mom’s oven. She still remembers the joy she felt at the finished products!

Thirty-plus years later, Sheila, now married with two children, learned that her husband had been called to be the next president of a university. That meant she would need to be . . . a president’s wife. While that thought could have brought her a sense of pride, it was difficult for her to feel anything but panic.

Her mind was filled with visions of dignified ladies with beautifully coiffed hair and impeccable clothes. Sheila felt overwhelmed and completely unsuited for the tasks ahead—until she realized that one of her tasks would be cooking, baking, and hosting various events.

God had been preparing her for her calling throughout her life, gifting her for a role she never could have anticipated.

The angel told Mary, “For nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37). Those same words encouraged Sheila to know God could enable her for the days ahead.

The first words the angel spoke to Mary were, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God” (Luke 1:30). All of us have heard or used the phrase, “The Lord works in mysterious ways.” Why does God often call us to do things we perceive to be outside of our abilities? 

Mary’s calling is a perfect illustration of God’s mysterious ways. See Luke 1:31–35.

Often, God’s calling in our lives is not something we would have chosen or planned. Could it be that God wants us and others to more easily recognize his work in the world rather than think we should take credit for those things ourselves?

How will the Lord’s Holy Spirit “overshadow” you this holiday season to accomplish his work in the world? 

When God calls, you can say yes, knowing that “nothing will be impossible with God” (Luke 1:37).