Tea and Thee

This morning I prepared a pot of English Breakfast Tea, poured it into one of my bone china teacups, and settled in for my quiet time with the Lord. I have been a tea enthusiast for almost 30 years, after I came back from England where one of my granddaughters was born. Since then, I learned a great deal about the history of tea and the proper way of preparing it. I was amazed to learn that all true teas come from one plant, the Camellia sinensis.

I’ve heard it said that tea is a journey that takes a lifetime to learn. Although I’ve learned much, I know I haven’t scratched the surface of the many varieties and complexities of tea. Several books on the history and origins of tea have been helpful, but it is a slow process of learning. Still, I pursue and seek out more.

Some time back I transformed a small bedroom in my home, into my private little tearoom. It is home to many teacups I’ve collected and serves as the perfect place to spend quiet time with the Lord. This is where I find myself today, ready to continue my study in 2 Timothy, my two Shih Tzu’s, Chai and Charlotte, nestled by my feet.

I enjoy a long sip of my tea as I turn to 2 Timothy chapter 3. There is so much wisdom in the letter the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy (and to me), it cannot be absorbed in one sitting. I know that I have so much to learn but I must be intentional about seeking it. Just as my quest to learn about tea, I’m on a lifelong journey to gain spiritual insight and wisdom from God.

I stop sharply at verses 16-17. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

It says ALL Scripture…not just one book. As in my ongoing search for understanding about tea, I know that seeking godly wisdom will be a lifetime journey. God has given me wisdom through His Word, to make me complete and to equip me for the work He has planned for me.

As I drink the last of my English Breakfast Tea, I close my eyes and meditate on what God has taught me this morning. There are many categories of tea, determined by oxidation, a process through which tea leaves are exposed to the air in order to dry and darken, contributing to the flavor, aroma, and strength of different teas.

Pursuing Christ is a lifelong process through which I will be exposed to different trials and challenges, in order to refine me, and develop my character, to be useful for His purposes. As I read, study, and apply God’s Word to my everyday life, I will take on the aroma of Christ.