When my husband steps through the back door, he usually peeks in the kitchen sink to discover a clue about the activities of my day. If two coffee cups rest there, he knows I hosted a friend sometime during the day.
True, I could’ve rinsed the cups and placed them in the dishwasher. But for some reason, I like using this as a code for how my day went.
It’s no secret I enjoy coffee, but I especially love it when shared by another. And while I do like the coffee shop experience, the pinnacle of coffee drinking for me is when someone steps into my home and sits at my table. Reader, don’t be alarmed if you are not a coffee drinker. Water, tea, Diet Coke® and often a sparkling water are available. The type of beverage does not dictate the experience. The presence of another person does.
Years ago, I realized I could offer my home, my time, and a cup of coffee to others. It felt like something Jesus might do because he spent a lot of time doing things with people and food. I named this activity, “the ministry of home” because Jesus calls us all into ministry. If that sounds daunting to you, remember ministry is just a fancy word that means “to act as an instrument, agent, or vehicle.”
My friend Shirley models this “ministry” for me. Often, I pop over for an un-announced visit. EVERY time I do, she gladly welcomes me into her home and offers a cup of coffee regardless if she has already had her limit for the day.
My friend Darlene also models this “ministry” for me. Darlene is an excellent seamstress and can make almost anything. Whatever her newest thing involves, I am usually a lucky recipient — soup bowl holders, scrubbies, and beautifully embroidered bookmarks. I rarely leave her home empty handed.
Ministry looks different to different people:
Carolyn likes to take walks with friends.
Becky opens her home for Bible study.
Kenna is great about checking in.
You and I are in the life-improving business to become more like Jesus. How we do that may differ. Please don’t underestimate the value of your ministry because in God’s Kingdom, it all matters.
So if you stop by my house for coffee, leave your dirty cup in the sink. When I eventually wash it, I’ll smile because it will make me think of you once again.
This is fabulous!! And I was one of the recipients of your hospitality and wonderful conversation! You are the best! ❤️
I miss our coffee dates! You model the gift of hospitality so well.
Susan, thanks for sharing! I admire your gift for finding the ministry in every day happenings — much like comedians can find humor in so many things that simply ,”happen”. Both are gifts!
I, too, love every “drop in” visit. Unlike my sister who only allows visits when her home is spotless ,( and still apologizes for the mess). I would never have visits if I were the same — rather, without apology, I say “this is how I roll — and I know when I lose something, Iwill eventually find it in one of the piles!”
Thanks for sharing your talents so freely with us! Much love! 😍
Love this! Miss seeing you! I need to “stop in” for a cup of coffee and conversation! Thanks for this lovely reminder of how simple being in ministry can be ❤️
Oh I just savor every word (and of course, every drop)! Tommy and I plan to visit you someday soon, and look forward to many a cup.
Loved this. Thank you!
I so miss being close enough to drop in for a cup. Your nearby friends are blessed for sure. Cindy
Miss you Susan💗
she speaks truth. love being loved by you friend.
Your simple observations of life rhythms express profound intimacy with the LORD and others.
Savoring those familiar sweet hospitality memories we shared…missing our garden strolls.
Miss being able to share a cup of coffee together, sweet friend. Your gift of hospitality and friendship is truly a beautiful ministry ❤️
This warms my heart. I miss getting together with you❤️❤️
Coffee with you is a treat. Such a great reminder of how God works in our availability!