This morning, I transformed my kitchen into a workshop of sugar, spice, and joy as I baked trays of cookies to share at tonight’s Christmas Eve worship service. There was much flour dust, warmth from the oven, the sweet aroma – buttery goodness, chocolate, and even some butterscotch—a fragrance that always feels like a friendly hug.
As I measured, mixed, and scooped the dough, I listened to Christmas carols and pondered the truths of Christmas. It struck me that baking cookies is much like God’s work in our lives. Here are a few thoughts that emerged as the mixer hummed.
Recipe
Every batch of cookies starts with a recipe—a guide that ensures all the right ingredients come together in harmony. Without it, my cookies would be a disaster. Similarly, God’s Word is the recipe or guide for our lives. Psalm 119 reminds us of the significance of the Word of God in our lives. In verse 27, the psalmist asks God to cause him to understand, which reminds me of the prophet Ezekiel’s words:… “And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws” (Ezekiel 36:27). When we walk with God and allow the Spirit control, He guides us into all truth, along the path of righteousness.
Heat
Once the cookie dough is thoroughly mixed, we scoop it out onto baking pans and put it in the oven. The heat transforms the flour and butter into delicious golden cookies. Cookie dough is fun to eat, but without the heat, there is no transformation in the yummy, crunchy treat! Isn’t that how God refines us? The trials and challenges we face may feel overwhelming, but James 1:2-4 encourages us to “consider it pure joy” because these moments produce perseverance and maturity in our faith.
I have another batch almost ready for the oven. The first cookies are cooled, arranged on plates, and prepared to be shared with others tonight. Just as the cookies are meant to bless and bring joy to our festive celebration, so our lives should reflect the light and love we experience in Christ, building up and blessing all those in our circles of life.
Aroma
Finally, as I left the kitchen, I couldn’t help but think about the aroma filling every room! Baking cookies create an inviting fragrance that evokes sweet memories and the warmth of family fun. The Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 2:15 that we are to be “the aroma of Christ” to those around us. Just as the scent of cookies can brighten someone’s day, our words and actions can offer hope and love to a weary world.
Cookies make me think of the greatest gift given. May all that gather feel the grace and love of our newborn Savior as they mingle and enjoy the cookies.
Merry Christmas, dear friends. May His joy fill your hearts and lives to overflowing—as warm and inviting as the scent of cookies straight from the oven.
Also published on Substack.
