Choices are an American right. We don't want just a hamburger; we want a Chili's hamburger-or a Wendy's, or Steak n' Shake, or Fuddruckers, or (heaven forbid!) a McDonalds. And coffee aficionados are even worse. When you want a Starbuck's Latte, a Caribou Mocha just won't do! And instant coffee? Get real! Who would possibly drink tepid water with a few weak granules of fake coffee flavoring stirred in?
In a hotel dining room in Teshie, Accra, Ghana, without a Starbucks anywhere in the hemisphere, instant coffee is seen in an entirely different light. "Yes," you say to the waiter/cook/bellhop/front desk clerk, "I will have coffee." And no, its not real coffee, and you certainly wouldn't drink it at home. But here, its part of the experience, a simple sacrifice for the cause. I can do it-for the Lord. And its not as bad as I imagined.
All of life is about choices. I'd like to drive a Mercedes, and have a big house with rolling lawn, and make fistfuls of money. (That "fistfuls of money" takes on a whole new meaning in 3rd world countries as well, what with exchange rates like 1 US to 5000 local currency.) But in order to serve God where He's led me, sometimes I must be willing to drive a Ford-or ride a bike-and sleep in a hut and trust Him for provision. And what I've learned is that God's way isn't as bad as I imagined! And it's only temporary. I'll have all eternity to enjoy His best! And I'll bet that's even better than I imagine.
So what'll you have today? Cappuccino where you live, or instant where He wants you? Make your own choice, but I'll have the instant, please.