At first glance, baking a pie would not seem to be a spiritual exercise, but God can make the things you feel passionate about part of His story. For me, I chose pie to be a part of my story. Pie was never designed to be eaten alone so you plan to be sharing it. I bake pie for people as a way to say “thank you,” “I appreciate you,” and “I’m happy to be with you.” This year since things have been so different, I’ve looked at other ways to share and make people feel included by dropping off pie. People recognize the time it takes and feel very loved to have someone make something delicious to give them. I’m not just doing this for other people, though.  It’s a meditative practice I can turn to that gives me time to pray. It helps me to slow down, be still, and remember God is there. 

The entire story that God tells through the Bible is about relationships. God gives us relationships in order to learn about Him, His son Jesus, and each other. Our time spent together with other people is a way of understanding who God is and what He is doing in our lives. I ’m picturing a group of friends around my table and I’m cutting everyone a piece of pie and that’s a real picture of togetherness for me. Some people have their favorite pies too so I’ll tailor the experience to help people feel loved. It’s a small way for me to help people feel that God cares about them too.

There is an aspect of vulnerability in offering people something I care so much about. I’ve gotten better over time, but I did have to put myself out there. It takes a continual decision to say, “I’ve made this pie and want to share it with you because I love you.  You might not like it and don’t have to try it, but here it is.” And we could be talking about anything; whatever it is you do, you need to give it away. Don’t keep your gifts or spend your energy on yourself. Jesus gave his whole being for us so any piece of ourselves we can give, brings us closer to becoming like Jesus.

God as the creator describes people as created in His image, to be like Him. Any time people create things, it points right back to God. I wouldn’t have the drive to create if God didn’t put it in me to begin with. Forming something with my own hands, especially if I make the whole pie from scratch, produces something that is way greater than the sum of its parts. A beautiful creation is evidence to me that God is real. 

When talking about pie, the mind may go to the Fruit of the Spirit, a few of which are love, joy and peace.  Pies make people feel loved and welcome, and there’s joy in creating something good to share with people. Ecclesiastes talks about nothing better than having joy in whatever you do even in the day-to-day things. Then peace comes from slowing down while baking and being still, quiet, and listening. My blog about the pies I bake is called “Peace of Pie.” The chance to pause and write helps me remember God is working in the details of my life and strengthens my faith. Pie is a just little feature to my bigger story: God’s story.

To listen to the full interview with Jessica and Matt please check out our A Little Faith podcasts.