giving: Red Letter Challenge

Growing up, most days breakfast was a bowl of cereal (Raisin Bran was my go to) or toast (cinnamon and sugar or a smear of peanut butter). There were probably Pop-Tarts and donuts and those white-icing covered danishes. Sometimes my mother would make pancakes and when I stayed with my Aunt Rosie, pancakes were often served with a homemade white syrup.

As an adult breakfasts have become a protein-infused smoothie where I try to pack in some of the fruits and vegetables I struggle to squeeze in otherwise. Except when I have a little extra time, usually on a Saturday, when I break out the skillet and whip up a batch of pancakes (and whenever I can that ridiculously delicious white syrup). I like to make the pancakes when the kids are around and when they have guests staying over. It’s a simple breakfast, but it speaks to me of simpler days and when I get them right I can taste the love of my childhood. I hope one day my family will eat a pancake and remember they too are loved.

Perhaps this is why I do not make pancakes for myself. Pancakes are for sharing. Pancakes are meant to be stacked and passed around and they are best enjoyed even as another puddle of batter starts bubbling to be served to the next hungry soul. I find an uncommon joy as a steady stream of fluffy-puffy circles make their way to the plates of my loved ones and the ones they bring into our home.

The story we have of Jesus’ life called the Gospel according to Luke is continued in the Acts of the Apostles. In Acts 20:35 Jesus is quoted as suggesting, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

I have tried making it harder, but giving love can be as simple as making pancakes. It is the intention behind the act that transforms this or any other act into a gift. And it is indeed a blessing.

Sure cereal and smoothies would do to stave off those hunger pangs, but I want to do better. I want to do more. I want to live with more of this love-giving intentionality. I won’t be able to make pancakes for everyone, but I am not going to let that stop me.

I’ll start with pancakes and who knows where I might wind up?

Life is better (sharing pancakes) together,
Shawn

Isn’t that the thing about sharing? It c