Wheatboy

I am at the centre of my universe. I discovered this yesterday.

This Christmas I became the proud owner of a bread-maker. It is by far the best thing I have owned for the last five years, which includes my green Fiat Punto “Stanley.” Waking up to the smell of fresh bread has quite simply changed my life. Its like having a sleepover in Greggs.

I am overjoyed with every loaf I make. I remove it delicately from its birthplace before setting it peacefully on its designated plate. I even give some loaves nicknames. This morning’s loaf was called Wheatboy.

Anyway, my flatmate Mark helps himself to my bread. He showed no respect for Wheatboy as he hacked at it unevenly. He does not make the bread, buy the bread, or even name the bread. I feel short-changed every time I see he has depleted my loaf by another slice.

As I shared my burden with a few friends yesterday, something crazy happened. My mate Joe suggested that I start taking his beer. This way he would be forced to ask why I thought it was ok to steal from him. I could then point to my hard-working bread-maker and expose his thieving ways.

Unfortunately, I already take his beer without permission and never replace it. My friend Daf joked I could up the stakes and start taking his clothes. Unfortunately, I already take his clothes without permission and sneak them back into his room so he doesn’t know.
I also use his hair wax, wear his slippers, steal his washing up powder, and work out on his rowing machine.

I am the centre of my universe. I discovered this yesterday.

The problem is not just my selfish pride. It goes deeper. Despite realising my complete hypocrisy last night, I still got annoyed this morning when I saw another slice had gone.

Jesus said that freely he gave his life for me, so freely I must give to others. Jesus hung for hours on the cross until he died, so that my friendship with God would not be blocked by my attitude and actions. My salvation came when I believed and followed Jesus. I did not have to offer my body on a cross.

And I still begrudge my brother in the Christian faith a slice of bread whilst using his possessions like they are my own.

Consider these words of Paul to the church in Corinth:

“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”

Mark, I know you will read this and I apologise. Please please keep eating my bread. I will be offended if you ever ask for a slice. Fill your boots mate. Tell your friends.