Shake n Bake Theology

Really...no, really.  I'll explain.

I was driving to work and thinking about how the interplay between God's mercy to save and our own responsibilities in the matter and it struck me.

It's Shake 'n Bake!

For those of you who may not know, shake 'n bake is a seasoned bread crumb mix who had this brilliant ad campaign featuring an adorable little girl, aged 3 or so.
 
"What's for dinner tonight, wifey?"
"It's shake 'n bake"
(and the little girl would chime in) "AND I HELPED!"

No matter how young, small or unskilled, each person has a part to play, a manner in which they can help.  Much of cooking really isn't about the food.  Anyone who has cooked for a family knows that.  You cook to show your love and care for those who sit at table.  That is why, regardless of skill level, what momma puts on the table is better than what you can get in a restaurant.  Of course, those who prepared supper can sit and enjoy it, but the true satisfaction is about the communion shared at the table.

The connection I am making (or trying to make) is how the small child is made an active and vital participant in the process of creation for the benefit of all.  Can mom do it all herself?  Of course, but then the child learns nothing and has no investment in something which is required for the child's health, well-being and survival.

Can God save us entirely ourselves, independent of any action on our part? Of course.  But then, what would we learn, how would we become more spiritually able if everything is handed to us?  That isn't how you raise kids or teach students.  The best way of learning about a thing and it's 'value' is to attempt to do it.

And just like the little girl who 'helps' mommy in the kitchen, we 'help' in the co-creation of the universe because we wish to, because we love God and want to please Him.

Again and again...it comes back to the basics.  If you love God, you will do as She says and not do what He says not to do.  There isn't any of this "...and if you don't listen *thunder crack*" silliness, because that would be works motivated by fear, not by love.

"Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced His perfect love." (1 John 4:18)

P.S. - Now, I'm hungry.  I wonder what's for dinner?