The Aroma - Savoring the Blend

I nearly give myself whiplash when I spot a local coffee shop. The smell of roasting beans and the subtle fragrance of people coming together is irresistible. These community hubs are vibrant with shared moments and people set about doing their tasks. Like a magnet, I am drawn in. Plus, I love the local aspect. With so many national chains, its the small coffee shops that I love to support and I always find a unique blend of service and sweetness that I don't normally find at the big stores.

Such was the case today. I had already reached my limit of caffeine; nearly twice my legal limit. But in my defense, a semi-sleepless night and a schedule full of commitments for the day left me no choice but to overindulge. Even as my hands jittered with the affects, I spun my car around, parked, grabbed my laptop bag and scooted in to find a seat. I just wanted to be in the aroma.

The smell of coffee is one thing, but the aroma of people adds to the charm and lure for me. I love to watch friends catching up, colleagues discussing projects, and solo patrons immersed in a good book. I am all of these people on any given day. Just this week, I was at a local shop with a group of REALTORS® collaborating on ideas for navigating this strange real estate market we find ourselves in. Other times, I call an audible and leave my computer behind, grab a book from my shelf, and head out to a local shop to read.

The scent of conversation mingles with the smell of coffee, creating a unique dance that resonates with the essence of human connection for me. These places, with their allure of sounds and sights and smells, hum a song of belonging and serve as a welcome mat to their patrons.

Other times when I feel a similar welcome is the aroma of worship. Sometimes I just want to be in the presence of Jesus so I set aside time to brew worship. Singing an old hymn, closing my eyes and lifting my head toward heaven is a simple act but one of transformational connection. Just like the coffee bean goes through a transformation during the brewing process, worship transforms and welcomes me into an attitude of thanksgiving and hope.

Coffee and religion have significant roles in our culture, ingraining our communities and influencing traditions. In the bustling world and the busyness of daily life around us, I pray the aromas of the season will stop you in your tracks. I pray you will be mindful and focused to see, to smell, and to hope. I pray these moments will stand out as a beacon to nourish your heart and your soul, capturing you and bringing attention to the very essence of your purpose here on Earth. The aroma is more than just a caffeine boost, it’s an experience. So, savor the blend; the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, the scent of people coming together, and the fragrance of worship. O Come Let Us Adore Him!

#aromatherapy #coffee #worship #realtor