More Than Coffee

A table for six.

I sat among the women around it, each of us possessing a different story, circumstances, life experience. We smiled, laughed, even teased, yet eyes hinted at heavier things resting on minds. Private thoughts swirled, but none wanted to air them. We sat together, grateful for the distraction, soaking in the presence of one another, finding respite in small talk.

Though our discussion could not be classified as spiritual, the little circle provided an oasis, forcing us to focus on something else, someone else. I glimpsed God there in the beauty of those women, in their determination to do the next thing, to move past the clouds, to set their minds elsewhere. No problems were solved, no specific cares were even addressed, but we walked out lighter.

How can sharing a cup of coffee and a few silly moments make a difference? Why should something so little lift our spirits?

It's the power of the Holy Spirit, filling and uniting, permeating and strengthening.

For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.

Matthew 18:20

Without any words at all the Spirit heals and soothes, calms, lifts the burden. Do we find relief with others because we sense His presence in them? Does it matter if the topic moves deep or stays superficial? Doesn't He reside in His followers no matter what is spoken?

Six women whose only common denominator was their love for Jesus proved it to me. It's true we need each other, to confide in or cry to or gain advice. But sometimes we need each other just to sit with, to pass the time.

And settle into God's Presence.

Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews 10:25

Photo Credit: rowanf