God's Love In A Cup Of Coffee

I was sitting in the local coffee shop recently. Not an unusual place to find me. It's a great place to get some writing done and get out of the house for a little while. New surroundings can make all the difference.

A businessman was standing in line waiting to order when a soldier in uniform came in behind him. Being married to a retired Army bandsman, I notice anyone in ACUs. I just smiled at him as he walked past and went back to typing.

The businessman was ordering when he saw who was behind him. Without hesitation he added, "And then whatever this man is having, I'll pay for that, too." The checkout girl smiled and turned to the soldier. I wouldn't way he was astounded, but he was definitely surprised. I know I was.

As they stood together waiting for the bill, the businessman held out his hand and thanked the soldier for his service to our country. Several other people in the room saw and were smiling, too. It was a joy to see the honor they were willing to give to someone in our military.

I tried not to stare at them through my tears, but my heart was overflowing with gratitude to our Lord. This is what we're all supposed to be doing to everyone, all the time, everywhere. Maybe not buying coffee for everyone in the building, but showing our appreciation when it's needed. Being willing to do something special when we're led to. Opening our hearts to a complete stranger, because this is the way to share God's love.

I have no idea if that man was saved, but he was showing the compassion Jesus Christ described to His followers.

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. Matthew 22:37-39

We could all probably quote this Scripture by heart, but when was the last time we put it into practice? God's Word is wonderful and powerful all by itself, but it means even more when we're using it and applying it in daily life. It wasn't meant to be locked up between the covers of the Bible, but taken as instruction for how to live and how to think.

Now I'm just looking for opportunities to be like that businessman and share God's love. Maybe it will be the tool God uses to save the lost, to inspire someone else or to change someone's day for the better. Any of those outcomes is fantastic - just think about bringing honor and glory to God through your actions!

And getting a cup of coffee at the same time! Talk about the desires of your heart.

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