A Red Cup Reflection

(Jesus said this)…“Do you think I cannot call on my Father, and he will at once put at my disposal more than twelve legions of angels? But how then would the Scriptures be fulfilled that say it must happen in this way?”- Matthew 26:53-54

Unless you have been under a rock, you have heard about the “Starbucks Red Cup Fiasco of 2015” (this title is trademarked, pay me .05 cents and you can use it. I also entitled it “RED CUP RISING”, but I didn’t think it worked that well).

Anyway, there was a supposed uprising over a red cup from Starbucks. The media had us believe that there was a “Christian” uproar over the Christmas concepts being taken off the Starbucks cup. The reality is nobody cared, until they heard about it. Then, in pure marketing genius, Christians who wanted to prove that they weren’t offended went out and bought the cup of coffee.

I totally appreciate all the people who bought the cup to prove they weren’t offended. However, I think the biggest problem that has not been addressed is all these supposed “wars" on Christianity.

We, as followers of Christ, keep getting caught in these media uproars about “wars on Christianity”! 

Why?

Where did Jesus say “Rise up and fight for me!” or “Be sure to serve people, but above all else, don’t let society try to take me away!”?

HE IS GOD! Why do we feel like we need to defend Him? He is defending us! We are called to love people, serve people, and share His good news of hope, mercy, and grace! He said, “Go into all the nations teaching them what I have taught you and make disciples…” (Matthew 28).

Why do we add, “…and make sure that my name is on everything!”

I am all about making sure Jesus’ name is known. I’m all about making sure that people understand that hell is real and sin ruins us. I am all about making sure people understand that through Jesus, hope is found and relief is discovered in order to be reconnected with our Creator God.

However, I also say, that we aren’t meant to create a war on society in the name of Jesus. He didn’t do it, so why should we? He challenged culture by raising awareness of social issues and flaws in the temple and those who were “holy”. He flipped tables “in the temple”; He challenged people to take a Sabbath; He challenged people to serve and touch the untouchable; He challenged the “religious leaders” of the day to live without pomp and circumstance, but true lives of caring for the poor and feeding the hungry.

In fact, Christians should be aware that we might also have a problem with keeping Christ in Christmas. How many of us spend money on gifts at Christmas for people who already have everything, but struggle to give money to the Salvation Army bell ringers or buy something for a homeless person? How many of us look forward to eating a major meal on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, but struggle when a person is looking for a meal on the streets?

The war on Christmas might begin with us! Another tidbit of information for you…Christmas falls on a Sunday next year (face palm!)! How many will now start to figure out how they’re going to find a church service on Christmas Eve to go to, just so they feel good on Christmas Day because it’s so busy!

Think about it!

When Peter picked up a dagger and cut off a guard’s ear, Jesus told Peter, “That’s it Peter! Fight for me! Viva La Revolution!” Oh, no, wait, uhm….sorry, He said “He who draws the sword, dies by the sword!” (Matthew 26).

Jesus didn’t want His followers to create a war or separation. He wanted His followers to live for Him. Make His name known 365 days a year, not just during a season. Especially a season that was set-up to honor His birthday, not even the real birthday!

The whole idea is ridiculous. Let us step back, slow down, and share Jesus’ love with people.

May we not get caught up in whether or not society is living for Jesus, but make sure we are.

Perhaps, maybe then, society will begin to follow.

Peace and blessings friends.

Merry Christmas!...Don’t forget Thanksgiving though!

QUESTION: What is your favorite part of Christmas?