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Across the Pastor’s Desk by Matt Hundley

The other day was busy and hectic at work. Perhaps you’ve had a day like that?

I had skipped breakfast to arrive early to prepare for a meeting. Now into late morning, I was really starting to feel the effects of hunger. Not wanting to make a run for fast food, I went into the kitchen at church hoping to find leftover donuts in the freezer from Sunday morning. Nothing. So, absentmindedly, I opened the refrigerator and found the raspberry pie someone had graciously made and given to me as a gift. I had completely forgotten that it was there. Score!

I have to tell you, that pie was delicious. After having my fill, I reflected on the gift and the givers and found myself encouraged and energized. A smile crept across my face, and the reality of 1 Peter 4:8-10 began to make sense in the here and now.

It says, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.”

Growing up in the church, I’m familiar with a lot of scripture. It was in this simple act of baking a pie that I discovered just how those verses are to be lived out by those of us who believe Jesus is the way, the truth and the life.

Mother Teresa is quoted as saying, “Small things done with great love will change the world.” I believe this to be true. I’ve experienced it firsthand.

My day and my attitude were altered by a raspberry pie. Scratch that, it was far more than the pie. It was the humble service and godly love shown in a practical way that changed things for me.
Our world needs to change, and most of us hope someone else will do something about it. What if it’s up to us?

I believe that if each of us was to intentionally seek to show kindness, love and care for those immediately around us, whether at work or in our neighborhood, the world would change. You see, it doesn’t take big things to change the world. Just you and me doing something kind for each other. Let’s get baking, shall we?

Matt Hundley is pastor at Albert Lea Vineyard Church.