B E H I N D / T H E / B A R

Let me say at the outset, in light of recent events, this is not a political, liberal vs. conservative post.  But I do have to admit over the last several weeks as I’ve seen the question, “Would Jesus eat Chick-fil-A?” I began to wonder if Jesus would drink coffee.

I believe he would.

Now according to legend, a group of Ethiopian monks first discovered the benefits of drinking coffee.  Introduced to them by some local shepherds, the monks began drinking coffee to sustain them during their prayers and devotions.  From its very beginning as a beverage, it seemed to possess some spiritual merit, all be it minimal.

Still, I think Jesus would drink coffee for more than just its ability to energize and keep him awake.  I think Jesus would drink coffee, because I’ve seen him drink coffee on a number of occasions right here in my very own coffee shop.  Now before you go thinking I’ve had one too many double shots, I’ll tell you that I haven’t seen a mysterious man in a white robe and sandals come in and drink a White Mocha at our shop.  But I have seen countless numbers of his followers come in and share a cup of joe with other folks that needed a voice of comfort and encouragement in their life.

One day I had a customer stop by the counter before she left and asked me if our coffee shop was really a church, just undercover.  I told her no, but inquired as to why she was asking.  She told me about a recent visit to the shop when she noticed a group of people praying together at a table.  A few minutes later, she noticed another couple of folks talking, and later praying together, and a few minutes after that on the other side of the shop she noticed a couple of guys praying together as well.

I chuckled to myself as I later thought about what this lady had seen.  I believe she saw Jesus.  She saw people bearing one another’s burdens, listening to one another, encouraging one another, challenging one another, doing exactly what Jesus would do.

So yes, I believe Jesus would drink coffee and I pray that He continues to everyday that our little shop opens its doors.

Who’s that person with whom you need to have a cup of coffee?  Maybe they are discouraged, maybe they are struggling with life, maybe they need a friend to listen to them.  Call them, right now, invite them to have a cup of coffee with you.

That’s what Jesus would do.

By the way, I have a great shop to recommend 🙂