14th September 2014 – 14th Sunday After Pentecost A

As a little girl, growing up in country New South Wales, sharing a cup of tea was the regular form of hospitality offered to neighbours. Growing up on a sheep farm, out in the bush, we met some real characters. There were many (seemingly) big men with gnarled hands, which would wrap around the biggest cup we could find. There would be biscuits dunked in the tea, but, often, if the tea were hot, a little would be pored into the saucer to cool more quickly. I confess I struggled with both the biscuit dunking and the saucer pouring and could never bring myself to do either, however, the following poem puts the latter in a different perspective. I don’t know who wrote this but thanks to David Forward for sharing.

 

DRINKING FROM MY SAUCER

I’ve never made a fortune, and it’s probably too late now.

But I don’t worry about that much, I’m happy anyhow.

And as I go along life’s way, I’m reaping better than I sowed.

I’m drinking from my saucer, ‘Cause my cup has overflowed.

 

Haven’t got a lot of riches; And sometimes the going’s tough,

But I’ve got loving ones all around me, And that makes me rich enough.

I thank GOD for his Blessings, And the Mercies He’s bestowed.

I’m drinking from my saucer, ‘Cause my cup has overflowed.

 

I remember times when things went wrong, My faith wore somewhat thin.

But all at once the dark clouds broke, And the sun peeped through again.

So LORD, help me not to gripe About the tough rows I have hoed.

I’m drinking from my saucer, ‘Cause my cup has overflowed.

 

If GOD gives me strength and courage, When the way grows steep and rough.

I’ll not ask for other blessings, I’m already blessed enough.

And may I never be too busy, To help others bear their loads..

Then I’ll keep drinking from my saucer, ‘Cause my cup has overflowed.

 

So my friends … I am now drinking from my saucer, ‘cause my cup has overflowed!

Many blessings

Reverend Shan