The latest controversy making the rounds on social media is in reference to Starbucks’ holiday coffee cup. Some people are angry because this year’s version is a plain red cup with no holiday images. It has been said that Starbucks hates Christmas and Jesus because of the design. Others dispute this statement and say the design has never been focused on the Christian meaning of the holiday.
Regardless of which side a person takes, one thing is clear. Many people feel offended by the words or actions of others. It’s just the latest example of people taking offense at what others say.
A Tough Skin
Anyone who is involved in ministry cannot take this approach with the people they serve. They must develop a tough skin and not be easily offended. They can’t get upset when they’re called names or criticized for their actions or words.
What a woman involved in ministry must remember is that she is ministering to others who need Jesus. They may resist Him and even the kindness she bestows. To be effective, you must look past these attacks and remember you are serving Jesus when you give to “the least of these.”
Yes, there are times when we need to stand up for our beliefs and for Jesus. But we should always exemplify His behavior and do so in a loving manner. We shouldn’t seek to be confrontational just to get our point across. In the end, you have to ask yourself how important a red cup is to alienate others you meet.
Not to Offend
The other side of the coin is that you also must work to not offend others. The Bible talks about this in several places. Romans 14:13 addresses this issue by saying that we shouldn’t pass judgment on others but avoid putting a stumbling block in the way of others. Other passages specifically address not eating food that others would find offensive, but it can be expanded to mean any action that would alienate others.
While many would argue that the Bible is talking about not offending other Christians, how much more should we seek to avoid this type of behavior for those we are trying to help? You may not agree with how a young girl living out on the street dresses, but will you be able to reach her by condemning her wardrobe? You may know that the man who comes to the soup kitchen every day is spending any money he receives on alcohol, but you won’t help him by failing to serve him food.
Jesus is the perfect example for us to follow. His condemnation was focused towards religious leaders. He met individuals with love and compassion. He accepted the woman at the well where she was, and He went to Zacchaeus’ house to have a meal with him.
We must be careful in our ministries and everyday lives to know when to stand up for our beliefs and when to avoid confrontation. Every act must be done in love, and if love motivates us, it will clear the blurred lines.
