by Beth Calmes, missionary to Tanzania

I didn’t know anything much when I went to Tanzania in 1996. The problem, however, was that I thought I knew a whole lot. That belief helped me for about one hot second upon landing in my new country.  Everything was different and much of it was challenging.  One standout challenge was my unwelcome unofficial role of wedding cake maker— “What!! I’d have to make wedding cakes for couples in our churches?  What!! There were no Betty Crocker mixes?”

Disregarding my utter lack of knowledge concerning all things wedding cake, I stupidly enthusiastically agreed to bake that first wedding cake.  “How hard can it be?  I can do all things through Christ…” Unfortunately, enthusiasm quickly packed up and left when frustration and anxiety moved in.

My first cakes vaguely resembled Mt. Kilimanjaro—they were embarrassing cakes; they cracked, broke, and crumbled while the frosting melted and slid. I hated making those cakes, truly hated them. My cakes were ugly, but my attitude may have been more so.

Twenty-two years later I continue to make wedding cakes.  I still don’t enjoy the task, but I’ve learned a thing or two along the way.  I’ve learned that a little cornstarch in the frosting keeps it from melting.  I’ve purchased better cake making tools.  I use fresh flowers instead of attempting icing ones. My cakes will never be on Southern Living’s cover, but they are no longer embarrassing.

My attitude is also less embarrassing.  A few years back I realized that I am privileged to make these cakes for others, to bring them joy.  I also make these cakes for the Lord because he called me to obediently serve Him in Tanzania. God’s given me many wonderful ministries that I enjoy, but it is through making the cakes that I discovered the heart of missions begins with a heart of obedient service.