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But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passion and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Galatians 5:22-25
Throughout the year occasions arise that allow us the privilege of serving cake to our church family. Welcoming new staff, celebrating our confirmands, commitment Sunday, and honoring staff who are moving on to a new chapter in their lives, to name a few, are deemed cake-worthy events! I’ve come to the conclusion, however, that it’s not just cake that is enjoyed!
By 10 am, a sweet scent permeates Coffee Grounds and alerts the congregation that they’re just an hour away from gathering to eat cake and honor or celebrate someone or something. During the service, our pastors share scripture, instruct and guide us, and send us out with a desire to be the hands and feet of God. As the sanctuary doors open at the end of the service, we have the opportunity to practice what we heard. The cake summons the masses and the Spirit is unleashed!
Cheerful servers replenish the tables and make water or punch available while taking time to chat with one another and those they are serving. While enjoying cake, new friendships are formed, existing ones are renewed or enriched, hugs are shared, those being honored receive warm wishes, and accomplishments are recognized! Kindness and the joy of community abound. The buzz of people laughing, sharing thoughts and feelings, and catching up on the latest events in their lives, reveals that people are truly connecting!
All are welcome to join regardless of their chocolate or vanilla preferences. We’re all unique with different gifts, life experiences and opinions – there are actually people who linger for the conversation and don’t even WANT cake! They are there because the goodness baked into us makes them feel they are part of a caring community and they simply don’t want to miss out on the fun!
Yes, we can consume four cakes in a matter of minutes, but I maintain that the cake is just the catalyst for something much more meaningful – the joy of being together, and the hope and love shared among us creates a peace treasured by all.
It’s not just cake, it’s community!
Heavenly Father, we thank you for bringing us together as a church family that gathers to eat cake, but more importantly, that we gather to share joy, kindness, and caring for one another. In all seasons, but especially in this season of Advent, we ask that your Spirit moves us and enables us to extend our love and kindness beyond the walls of our church to serve and support our neighbors in need. We pray all of this in the name of your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
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