I am blessed to have a daughter-in-law who is a baker of sourdough bread! My favorite is when she treats me with a loaf with mix-ins. Not just any mix-ins though. I realize some prefer cheddar, jalapeño, and herbs, or cinnamon and brown sugar. But she knows my fav is white chocolate and raspberry. It’s totally dessert! (Yes, I agree with the motto, “Life is short. Eat dessert first!”)

Now, let’s imagine that delectable loaf as a loaf of love. Everyone kneads some every day. (Couldn’t resist.) And we all choose who and how we are going to love those we come in contact with or with whom we have connections.

Are we stingy and toss a few crusty crumbs from a distance? Or are we generous, bringing a basketful of bountiful love with joy, kindness, encouragement, and peace.

When we know a person well, we have an advantage of being privy to their preferences and needs, perhaps even figured out their love language. (You may want to check out Gary Chapman’s book The Five Love Languages or his newest The 5 Love Languages & Their Dialects.)

According to Chapman, love languages include words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch. With this information, we know better what mix-ins to sprinkle into someone’s loaf, what truly touches their heart. It may take some additional thought and planning but should be well worth the attempt.

Hear Jesus’ recipe: “I give you a new command: Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you are also to love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35 CSB).

May our words and actions reflect the love of God who gave His all to all.