Pumpkin creamer is back in the stores; that means I'm drinking coffee again. (It's decaf, but still.) I don't drink it for the energy spike. I drink it because sipping warm, caramel-colored, pumpkin-flavored liquid makes me happy.

I thought about this the other day when I was all alone drinking my harvest java. I had not had a cup of coffee for months, so I savored it. I noticed I was smiling and felt so peaceful with that little porcelain cup in my hand. But why? Why is coffee so magical? Many people won't even see or talk to another human without drinking their coffee first. Why is coffee placed on a pedestal? Maybe you just drink your coffee and don't ask questions, but I couldn't help myself. I have a contemplative mind. "I think, therefore I write."

In my opinion, coffee is so popular; and treasured; not because it is divine, but because it is a catalyst. A catalyst for solitude, gratitude, and conversation.

Think about it. Coffee is often the first thing we drink in the morning before the world gets busy. Maybe you drink coffee alone during your quiet time with God. Maybe you're a parent or caregiver, and drink your coffee after the kids go to school. Maybe you drink your coffee on the way to work and enjoy it as you focus your mind on the tasks of the day. The morning scenarios are endless.

And what about gratitude? I often drink my coffee on the patio as I look around at nature, thanking God for everything He made. I thank Him for my family and all the ways He blesses me. I think about how small I am in comparison to my Creator, yet He knows each detail about me, loves me enough to consider me, save me from sin's punishment, and involve me in His plans.

How about conversations? How many conversations have you had over a cup of joe? How often have you chosen a coffee shop as a meeting place for yourself and a close friend or group of friends?

It could have easily been anything else, but for some reason we chose coffee.