Coffee Hour

“But still – that is our vocation: to convert . . . the enemy into a guest and to create the free and fearless space where brotherhood and sisterhood can be formed and fully experienced.” –Henri J. M. Nouwen

(As we approach Easter, we will experience many “strangers in our midst.” Enjoy this week’s meditation from John Edgerton, via Still Speaking.)


I love coffee hour, all my people are there.  I know who they are, they know who I am. There's coffee, sometimes there are tiny sandwiches.  It's great! But then there are those moments that gum up the works.   

Newcomer moments.  

Like when I'm topping off my coffee and I catch a glimpse of someone standing alone by the door—gingerly balancing a coffee cup in one hand and a plate with two sugar cookies and three loose grapes in the other looking as if they have strayed far from their comfort zone.   

I always wonder what brought them to church.  Was it the Facebook posts or the community garden? That clever sermon title from a couple weeks back or the rainbow flag on the sign? Or maybe their mother is sick. Or their career is falling apart. Or they can no longer think of a single good reason to be alive.  What's certain is they came to church seeking to know God and to be known by the people of God.  And when I see them standing by themselves, I think: should I leave my friends and greet them?  

What do you think? 

Monday Recall a time when you were a newbie to a place or a group. Were you welcomed? Ignored? Rejected? Pray. 1 Peter 2:12

Tuesday Allow yourself to focus on a time when there was hurt or pain in your life, physical or otherwise. Think about things that were helpful (and things that were not). Malachi 4:2

Wednesday Spring is here! Take a look outdoors. Is there a spot that could use your help? Prayerfully pick up trash or pull a few weeds. Water your houseplants. Ezekiel 47:6-12

Thursday Choose today to do a random act of kindness. Try to go unnoticed. Consider buying a coffee for “the next person.” Pray for the recipient. Ephesians 4:32

Friday Make a phone call (not a text or email) to someone who has been on your heart. Extend an invitation to join you Sunday at the Church in the Circle. Psalm 34:4-7

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, be gentle. Give yourself a break. Spend time remembering to whom you belong. Give thanks. Titus 3:3-7

Sunday Come this morning prepared both to praise God and be brought back to the sobering reality of what lies ahead in our Holy Week walk. Spend time in silence. Isaiah 53:1-12


“One of the marvelous things about community is that it enables us to welcome and help people in a way we couldn't as individuals. . . . We can welcome many people, even those in deep distress, and perhaps help them find self-confidence and inner healing.” –Jean Vanier

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