This is a Wordle.net cloud based on the words found in Coffee Shop Journal.
Words have always defined who I am. I read them, I write them, I learn through them. Lately I seem to want to decorate with them. I love words.
So the St. Augustine quote “Preach the gospel always. If necessary use words.” never really resonated with me. Of course you use words!
But a few days ago I walked into my regular Starbucks to order my breakfast. I go there nearly every day to study, journal, write: all the things that are so difficult to do here at home! My barista, whose name I think I know but I’m not really sure, took my Starbucks card and said, “So you’re a Christian, right?”
Wow.
I’ve never spoken to her beyond a “Hi” now and then.
“Yep, I am.”
“Thought so. Do you go to Christ Fellowship?”
It was a safe bet that I did go to Christ Fellowship. After that she talked about the “Atheist” I was chatting with last week for a moment (apparently he has a reputation with the ladies!) and that was the extent of the conversation.
I’m so glad that she knew I was Christian. I’m so glad that I’ve taken the time to sit in one particular Starbucks and begin relationships — however bizarre or minimal — with the Rabbi, the Atheist, and the group of senior singers that livened up the place two days ago. That’s life in the community, and I’m pretty sure it’s my thing.
{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
nothing personal, but you should probably learn her name… and christians are easy to spot/pick out at coffee shops
I did learn her name…as soon as I realized that I didn’t know it up until that point!
And yes, Christians are easy to spot at a coffee shop, usually by the huge Bible on the table. But since I usually read my Bible — and most other books — on my phone, I’d assume I’m a little more incognito.
You sound like you spend a good deal of time in the coffee shop yourself!
Really great blog u have here. It’d be really cool to read more about such matter. Thanks for sharing that information.
Chloe Murphy
b2b internet marketing
Marla, Thanks for your comment. Recent use of Brother Augustine’s quote by certain Christians seems to be an excuse to not share a verbal witness of Jesus Christ. The problem with that interpretation, is that it is complete out of context with Augustine’s life. As you know, Augustine completely sacrificed his life for the kingdom of Christ, living as a missionary on par with Paul the Apostle!
Hi Dave.
I think that most Christians use this quote as a reminder that no matter what words you use…if your life isn’t matching up to those words…your witness is worthless.. At least that’s how I see it.