consider the deeply spiritual sensations of hospitality, ...
sabbath, shalom, agapé, and stewardship of the body that are experienced when someone hands a steaming warm cup of coffee or tea to another person on a cool evening; when the two can linger in friendship, watching the steam rise and circle in front of their eyes as they commune within a conversation about each other’s deepest hopes. Consider the subtle spiritual power of that liquid gift being offered in a well-crafted stoneware vessel that is designed to keep the drink warm and yet also allow the heat to penetrate gently into the fingers and palms of each hand; a design that feels maternal and comforting in the grip.
There are some cultures in which such times are considered sacramental, and not to be underestimated. Such may be especially true in this time when too-few take enough regular time to slow down and mindfully consider the holy potential in such moments.
Below are examples of vessels created out of a deep sense for the spiritual practice of lingering, gently and long-enough, to share a cup of tea or coffee with a friend, even God, all the while listening for one’s true place in the deep presence of creation. What would your cup look and feel like?
(the name beneath each photo is a Web-link to that particular potter’s Website)