Signs and Lattes

Last Monday, on Thanksgiving, I made myself a latte.

It’s not uncommon, but it’s also not common. It differs enough from my day-to-day pour-over brewing in many ways: the grind, the machine, even the vessel of choice (while I have my preferred morning coffee mug rotation, lattes go into a ceramic latte bowl specific to the purpose.)

It is a little sign to myself of how I am beginning the day. These little variances communicate – even just to myself – the intended pattern: a latte in the bowl indicates a relaxed time in the morning. Yes, I had a to-do list, and yes it was a productive day; but starting with a different mindset – all from a latte.

We regularly communicate such small signs to our families and friends, and colleagues and strangers; often without realising it. My dogs know that when I put on my outdoor shoes, a walk is imminent; but when I pick up my purse and car keys that I am heading out (usually without them!)

So much of our communication is non-verbal, which means that little signs can make a big difference in how others will see and perceive us. As Christians, we are given the opportunity to be careful about how we present who we are. For example, wearing a cross but gossiping gives a mixed message. The myriad of ways that we live our faith (responding to the vulnerable with dignity, challenging unjust systems, speaking the truth in love, etc.) can show the world who (and whose) we are.

Jesus spoke often of paying attention to the signs (see Matthew 24); he also demonstrated signs. Signs of mercy and grace, of community-building and of self-care, of prayerful response to the glory of God in our midst. May we all be attentive to the signs of divine grace and love that are continually flowing upon us!