“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31
I love tea. As a good Southerner, I like it either way…iced or hot…but always sweet. My day begins usually with a large cup of hot black tea, doused with milk or cream. It’s my blissful indulgence as the sun rises, to open my eyes and get me going. It gives me a warm glow, almost as good as getting a word of encouragement from a friend or the Bible!
But, what’s a good word for a “tea lover”? If a wine enthusiast is called an “oenophile,” blogger William I. Lengemann III at englishteastore.com suggests “sinensophile,” from the binomial name for the tea plant, Camellia Sinensis. I like that. It sounds so much more sophisticated than “tea lover” or “teaophile.”
“Tea addict” would also be a good description for me…probably because I crave the dose of caffeine. Yes, tea has far less caffeine than a cup of coffee, but if I go without it in the morning, I’m destined to yawn all day. Keeping it to one teabag a day is sometimes tough, but I do like to sleep at night!
Paul, in writing to the Corinthians, encouraged his readers to do everything—even down to what they ate and drank—to God’s glory. I would like to think that my morning tea brings glory to God, but truth be told, I probably don’t put much connection between my indulgences (or obligatory work) and glorifying God. It’s a mindset I need to nurture—using everything, every opportunity, every action, every bit of energy, every attitude, and every kind word to build up God’s kingdom here.
I’ll leave you with this corny Bible joke of the day: How does Moses make his tea? Hebrews. Enjoy your day and a cup of tea for me! Think about glorifying God!
Lord, what a happy thing you made for us when you created tea! Thank You for letting us have this little burst of energy in our day, and I pray that You will use our work, words, and attitudes to bring glory to You! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Nancy C. Williams 