Bayou Tuesday: The Aroma of Service – Coffee, Cabin, and Community

 Bayou Tuesday: The Aroma of Service – Coffee, Cabin, and Community!

Good morning, y'all! It's another beautiful Tuesday, June 24, 2025, here in the heart of the bayou. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like waking up at the cabin, the sun just starting to peek through the cypress trees, and the rich, comforting scent of coffee brewing. But this morning, that coffee isn't just for me.

A Cabin Full of Service

Today, the cabin is bustling! My day starts at 4 AM every morning and today was no exception. I found Uncle Bill and Uncle Jerry already up, not looking for the Werther's Originals I'd stashed (smart fellas!), but rather on the porch, contentedly sipping coffee and puffing on their pipes, waiting for me to make some fresh. So, my first act of service was brewing a new pot of that good strong stuff!

But that's not all for today, folks – it's also clean the cabin day! We've got a full house, and that means a whole lot of cleaning, tidying, and making sure everyone feels right at home. It’s a bit of a dance, moving around each other, grabbing brooms, wiping down counters, and refilling coffee cups. To top it off, Uncle Elmer and Uncle Greg, our neighbors from across the ways, have joined us this morning!

And that’s where today’s devotional thought comes in: the joy of being a servant to others, even in the everyday hustle.

You know, it's easy to think of "service" as something grand, a big mission trip, or a public act of charity. And those are certainly important! But often, the most profound acts of service are found in the quiet, consistent ways we care for those right in front of us.

Think about it: who poured that first cup of coffee for someone else this morning? Who instinctively picked up a stray pillow, or started clearing the breakfast dishes without being asked? These are the small, yet powerful, moments of service that weave the fabric of community and family together.

Scripture in the Scullery

The Bible reminds us repeatedly of the beauty and importance of serving others. It’s not about being a doormat, but about embodying a spirit of selflessness and love.

Philippians 2:4 comes to mind: "Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others." When we're all at the cabin, and everyone pitches in, the burden is lighter, and the joy is magnified. It's not just "my" job to clean up; it's "our" job to make this space comfortable for all.

And think about the warmth and connection forged over those shared cups of coffee and the shared effort of tidying up. That's a taste of what Hebrews 13:16 talks about: "Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." Sharing our time, our energy, and even just our presence, especially when it helps others, is a form of giving that truly matters.

Even something as simple as ensuring everyone has their coffee and their pills (yes, Uncle Bill and Uncle Jerry's turn is coming up quickly!) is a form of service. It’s about being mindful of the needs of those around you. As Galatians 6:2 encourages us: "Bear one another's burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ."

So, as we tackle the breakfast dishes and sweep up the last crumbs at the cabin, let’s remember that every act of helpfulness, every kind word, every moment we put another's comfort before our own, is a small act of devotion. It's how we show love, not just with grand pronouncements, but with clean counters and a freshly brewed pot of coffee.

What small acts of service have brightened your day recently, either given or received? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Until next time, keep serving, keep loving, and keep that coffee brewing!