Why Coffee Shops Quench More Than My Thirst
A Quiet Place to Refuel (Coffee Shops and Faith)
I love coffee shops. They’ve become more than just a place for caffeine—they’re a place to quench a deeper thirst. Coffee shops and faith go hand in hand in my life.
In the quiet mornings, before the rush begins, it often feels like only three people are awake: me, the barista, and Jesus. The barista is busy, so it’s the perfect time to connect with the One who offers living water.
Jesus told the Samaritan woman at the well:
“If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” (John 4:10, ESV)
I met Jesus years ago, but I still need those quiet moments with Him. My soul is refilled at a corner table with an open Bible and a fresh cup of coffee. Coffee shops and faith intertwine in these sacred moments.
A Space for Connection in Coffee Shops and Faith
It doesn’t take long for the quiet to fade. Soon, the hum of conversation fills the space, and coffee shops transform into relationship hubs. Some chats are lighthearted—banter about the weather, weekend plans, or a hilarious story that has people laughing so hard the barista glances over, wondering if we’ll get kicked out.
But other conversations run deep. At a small table in the corner, friends share their struggles, seeking wisdom and comfort. You may not know the details, but the pain in their eyes is real. Coffee shops create spaces for community, where laughter and heartache coexist.
A Place for the Church to Learn
As I take in these moments, I can’t help but wonder: What can church leaders learn from coffee shops?
These spaces naturally draw people into conversation, connection, and vulnerability. If we’re looking for ways to reach our communities for Christ, perhaps we should start with a fresh perspective—one that sees coffee shops not just as businesses but as gathering places where the gospel can take root.
Dive Deeper Into Scripture
Join the Conversation, Share Your Thoughts:
- How can we, as the church, engage more with our communities in everyday spaces?
- What do you enjoy most about coffee shops?
- Have you ever had a meaningful spiritual conversation over coffee?
I get all of my work done at coffee shops! I’m always working on a sermon or doing administrative stuff. I work best in the midst of the hustle and bustle of people all around me. Recently, I’ve begun to leave my Bible wide open for anyone to see (even if I’m not using it). It’s become a great way to meet other Christians at coffee shops and just talk. This week alone, I met a local senior pastor, a pastor’s son, a worship leader, and a group of friends. Don’t you just love meeting new people?
That’s awesome Brian! Networking is a key piece to what I believe God has called me to do. Sitting in a church office is not conducive with God’s call on my life. Therefore, working in a public setting for a couple days per week is beneficial, as you have mentioned.
Thanks so much for taking time to read my thoughts! I greatly appreciate your support.