Variety: A number of different kinds; the absence of monotony or sameness
A popular proverb assures us, “Variety is the spice of life.” Still, I am astounded by the number of people I encounter day after day who appear to follow the same, well-worn rut. How monotonous! “Just try it, you might like it!” I often coax. I own a tea- and coffeehouse, you see. And I often invite customers to sample new varieties—“varie-teas”—or blends.
Every day customers come into my shop, approach the counter, and peruse the extensive list of flavors available on the menu. “May I offer you something to drink?” I ask.
“Uhhh, what do you have?” is the usual response.
I smile, take a deep breath, and tell them, “We offer a variety of coffees, sodas, cappuccinos, lattes, smoothies, gourmet hot chocolates, loose-leaf and fancy-flavored teas, chai, juice, milk, and water. There are hundreds of combinations, and each drink is prepared to order.” I refer them to the list and wait for a response.
The look on each face is priceless. Some are overwhelmed with the number of choices and can’t make up their minds. Others know right away what they want. They order the exact same thing every single day. You could set your clock by them; they are consistent, predictable, and adamant about their decisions.
Some people are timid and afraid to experiment. Those with more adventurous palates have started at the beginning of the list and are sampling their way through the long list of possibilities. (Or should I say, “possibili-teas”?) My favorite customers are those who are open to suggestion. I try to steer them in the right direction, and I never recommend something I haven’t tried myself.
As I go about my daily business, I pray that all I say and do will direct people toward Jesus and the refuge we can have in him. What an honor when one thing leads to another in a conversation, and I have the opportunity to introduce someone to the Savior, leading him or her into a personal relationship with him.
An amazing, endless peace comes from that saving knowledge, from the assurance of God’s great grace and forgiveness:
Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the [one] who takes refuge in him.
Psalm 34:8
This month’s devotion comes from Woman of God: Moments of Grace, CTA’s new devotion book for Mother’s Day, 2010. It’s themed around various “teas” or “ties”—for example, beau-tea, creative-tea, and active-tea. Check out the great content and beautiful art!
