Here’s what I’ve learned having coffee in Ethiopia. There’s history behind drinking coffee here that I tap into with every sip. Ethiopians don’t just throw a pot of coffee on and drop a few cookies on a plate. They partake in coffee ceremonies and it’s the best. That means washing the beans by hand, roasting the beans over a small charcoal burner in the living room, brewing the grinds in a jebena, and serving in little porcelain cups. Coffee always tastes better in porcelain cups. They’ll also burn incense and pop popcorn because coffee goes better with food. Then you relax and enjoy the company of the people you’re with.
Every time I got to sit with my old friends who I’ve been on this journey with and new friends from Ethiopia, I was reminded of how Jesus would sit with people. He didn’t force himself on people. He would recline with them; He moved to the speed listening. I’ve been learning more and more about how Jesus calls me his friend. He enjoys being with me just because of who I am. Nothing I did made me worthy of Jesus. In fact, I’d say the best thing I’ve done so far is learn to sit in that truth. Jesus sits with me even though I don’t deserve it. He sees everything about me and chooses to love me anyway. Sees all the envy, comparison, and over wretchedness that is my soul and pours me a cup of coffee anyway. He doesn’t sit with me in my guilt either. It’s not like a drink a principal offers you before he tells you how much trouble you’re in. Side note: I was homeschooled and have no idea if principals offer their pupils drinks. I’m just going off the fact that my mom would make me a cup of tea whenever cuss got real.
It’s sitting in this posture that makes me loving God and my neighbors,*cough* two most important things ever, *cough* easier. I’m not telling people about Jesus out of guilt. I just thoroughly enjoy coffee and the Lord and want everyone to partake in sitting down with us. I want to recline and sit with you because that’s what Jesus does with me.
