A couple of weeks ago a beautiful couple stopped by the radio station to say hello, get a tour of the facility and meet the staff. From the moment I met Mike & Jamie I felt a connection. I mentioned to Jamie that I’d love to have coffee with her one day and get to know her better. Before the sun had set that day we had a coffee date on the calendar!

We met yesterday. I’m thankful Starbucks doesn’t charge by the hour! But I’m convinced some of the best conversations happen over the rims of mugs! And so that is one of my favorite places to chat with friends. Just as I suspected, Jamie is a beautiful person with an amazing story of grace. We talked about our families, about life and things that we may have carried around in the past that weighed us down, and what we are passionate about seeing God do through us.

As I was driving home I thought about a verse in Hebrews 10:24-25 that reads “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”  There’s a principle in that instruction that brings great benefits. Encouraging someone else encourages us! Think about how we can stir each other up to love more and do more. And spend time together! I like to think if coffee shops were a hangout back in Hebrew times….that verse might’ve even said…’not neglecting to meet together at (insert favorite coffee shop here!)‘!

Feeling a little down? Heavy things weighing on your heart? Call up a friend, or make a new friend!, and grab a cup of coffee or hot tea with them. Encourage someone and you may find that it encourages you too.  I drove away feeling lighter. Chances are good – you will too!