Short Stories

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Chris always loved desserts and he enjoyed baking them. As a child he used to watch his mother bake pies and cakes for the local church and he ate the batter when she poured it into the pans. From that point on Chris wanted to be a pastry chef. He just graduated from high school and has his eyes set on the Culinary Institute of America. But the tuition is pricey and his father just lost his job at IBM last week. His mother works at a public high school but her salary was cut last year due to a decrease in the school budget. Chris is a little worried but not shaken because he knows God is his ultimate provider and that His grace is sufficient. Chris applied for financial aid but was turned down. So in the meantime he works at a mens' department store as a sales assistant in order to save some money for school.


This morning Chris got up and fixed a huge breakfast of grits, eggs, bacon, sausage, frech toast and juice. As he buttoned his blue uniform shirt a teardrop rolled down his face. He had just read in the newspaper that the job market was uncertain for many young people, even college graduates. "You have people with bachelor's degrees who can't find work. Am I wasting my time saving money for school?", he asked himself. Trying to shake the feeling he shoved the article in the trash can and sat down to eat. Chris knew there would be stiff competition for the Culinary Institute of America. He had excellent baking skills and he's won first prize at every contest he entered. But his awards didn't mean anything if the school didn't see him as a worthy applicant. Chris wanted to fufill God's purpose for his life and he felt the only way he could do it was by going to this school. "Sure you don't need a degree for God to use you but the world looks at how much prestige I have", said Chris. Minutes later the phone rang, it was his friend Lawrence. "Hey, Chris! I'm coming to the house, wait outside". "Alright, then. How you're doing?", asked Chris. "I'm feeling pretty good. I'm just a few weeks away from opening my bookstore. I need to fill out some more paperwork. And you?", he asked. "Honestly, I feel discouraged right now. I still haven't saved enough money to pay for my tuition. My parents are contributing but it's rough", replied Chris.
"Chris, you will become a pastry chef, college degree or not. If God wants you to do this, it will happen. Just wait on God, you know His timing is not always your timing", replied Lawrence. "You do have a point,I guess I'm being short-sighted and impatient", said Chris. "Sounds like it to me. We've all been that way but the good news is that God never leaves us. Well, why don't you come check out the bookstore and help me decorate it this weekend? You need a little distraction. Some nice Christian girls will be there too", laughed Lawrence. "I'd love to do that", replied Chris.

Lawrence drops and picks up Chris from work everyday. They have been friends since eighth grade and they understand each other. The two started the first bible study at their high school and they also went on three mission trips to France, Bolivia and Nicaragua last summer. Lawrence is opening a Christian bookstore with live music and free coffee on Saturday nights. He and Chris also attend the same church. Lawrence is always encouraging Chris during tough times and Chris appreciates it. Lawrence is also an accountability partner because he makes sure Chris is walking in God's light. On one occasion Lawrence caught Chris trying to steal some extra notepads from work and he said, "Chris, you know you're a new creation. You want to be salt in the world but if you keep doing this, you'll be tasteless and people will think you're just like everyone else."


Upon arriving at work, Chris talks with his co-worker, Manolo. "So, are you still saving up for school?", he asked. "Yep, but it's a slow process. I'm not too upset about it because God is my provider", said Chris. "You know,I've met people who said one thing and did another but you're genuine. I mean, you're a Christian but you're not pompous. You're letting people see your weaknesses and strengths. You have a very strong faith but you're human and accessible. I don't feel condemned when I'm around you. I feel accepted and loved. Growing up in a rigid home, it's a relief to work with you everyday", smiled Manolo. "Well, thank you. I remember when you ridiculed my faith all the time. You said that I was a hypocrite and that I was just like the others. You expressed such anger at me and you even conspired to have me fired. But I kept showing kindness to you and look at the results", said Chris. "I'm still reading that tract you gave me. I'm still hesitant but I'm interested in your message", said Manolo. "Well, why don't you come to my church Sunday? My friend Lawrence and I can bring you", said Chris. "I'd like that", said Manolo.

Around 5 p.m., Chris returned home. While checking his messages, he heard a unusual baritone voice. "Hi, Mr.Russell, this is Jack Louvier of Hartzville Cafe. I've read your resume and I'd like for you to come in for an interview on Friday at 9 a.m." Chris was estatic, after countless months of searching for a cooking job, an opportunity arrived. His mother was in the kitchen and he ran to her and said, "Mom!, I have an interview with the manager of Hartzville Cafe! This is one of the best bakeries in town! I hope I land the job." "You'll get it, I just know it. You've been trusting God all this time and it's paying off", replied his mother. An hour later Chris told his father the good news. "I'm so proud of you, son. God has great things in store for you."

Months later, Chris began working at Hartzville Cafe and quit his job at the department store. He remained friends with Manolo and he is now a believer. Manolo was led to another church but he keeps in touch. While Chris was fixing some bagels one day, a secret sioux chef sat in on him. What Chris didn't know was that this man was a representative from the Culinary Institute of America and was looking for recruits. Mr. Louvier recommended Chris and he received partial tuition for his studies.

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