Inconvenient Faith Part 7

Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." Now none of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. John 21:12-13

Growing up, I never imagined I would love cooking for others. I rarely entered the kitchen, and, I had zero cooking skills.

Things changed when I started traveling. I remember being a backpacker in Europe, staying with a host in Austria. I wanted to thank them, so I offered to cook a meal. I almost burned the pan making sweet and sour chicken! However, travel exposed me to diverse cuisines, and when I returned to Hong Kong, I began experimenting in the kitchen, starting with pesto sauce from scratch. From there, I tried other dishes good with pesto sauce, learning to be more creative and adventurous with cooking.

At the time, I lived in a loft apartment that allowed me to have a larger dinner table, and I began inviting friends over for meals. Those gatherings were filled with laughter and deep connection,. Cooking soon became my love language. When I cook for myself, I keep it simple, but when I cook for others, creativity flows. I find joy in sourcing fresh ingredients, spending hours preparing dishes, and watching people come together to enjoy good food.

This labor of love reminds me of Jesus, who prepared fish and bread over a charcoal fire for His disciples. Cooking isn’t just about feeding people, it’s an invitation to connect and to share love. When Jesus invited the disciples to eat with Him after His resurrection, He created a moment of restoration and fellowship, especially with Peter. Sharing meals opens hearts and strengthens relationships

We all have different gifts, and these gifts allow us to enrich the lives of others and foster relationships. Whether it’s cooking, playing sports, or creating art, every gift can reflect God’s love and bring people closer together.

Reflection Question:
What is your “labor of love” that allows you to reflect God’s care and goodness to others?

Prayer:
Abba Father, thank You for the gifts You’ve placed in my life. Teach me to use them as an expression of Your love. May my labor of love bring joy, connection, and glory to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.