Would You Buy a Cappuccino from this Coffee Shop?
Of the eight restaurants in Wrightwood, only three serve breakfast. And two of the three don’t open until 8:00. That means the only option for meeting with people who must get to work early is the lone coffee shop that opens at 6:00 a.m.
Because the owner is vocal about his political views and social positions – sporting banners and T shirts that go counter to common Christian views – some churchgoers won’t eat there. A few times, I’ve suggested to someone this as a place to meet, but he balked because of the social messaging. I get it. Ours is a free-speech, free-choice country. The owner is free to speak his mind. And customers are free to go there or not.
But there’s something else to consider. With only about five tables inside and six or eight outside, it’s a cozy environment where you often overhear other people’s conversations. When I’m meeting with guys to discuss God’s grace and how great it is to follow Jesus, I know it’s likely that other people hear what we’re saying. I consciously avoid appearing judgmental by criticizing any groups, and instead of using “church speak” terms like “Hallelujah,” or “washed in the blood of the lamb,” I explain whatever concept we’re discussing in terms a non-Christian could relate to.
Just last week, I met with a guy who was on the brink of committing his life to Christ. I explained in very simple terms how to become a Christian, and I know the man sitting by himself at the next table overheard our conversation. Of course, I have no idea what he thought, but at least he heard a clear and positive message.
One cool thing about Wrightwood is that each April and May, we get hundreds of hikers traveling the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) which runs right by our town. Not long ago as I was enjoying a guava turnover at one of the indoor tables, I got into a conversation with a friendly hiker. We had a great discussion about hiking, how cool the PCT is, why Wrightwood is a great place to live, etc. And although I didn’t go through a complete explanation of how to become a Christian, I was able to present a positive view of the faith. I hope I gave him something to think about as he spent the next few weeks on his solitary trek.
I get that some Christians avoid this place on principle. But I’m reminded of how the religious leaders of Jesus’ day chastised him for mixing with sinners and tax collectors. But just because he ate with them doesn’t mean he endorsed their lifestyles. And just because I meet with people in a place that shows few signs of following Christ, it doesn’t mean I agree with all their views. The Letter to Diognetus – a second-century apologetics letter – urges Christians to “be in the world, but not of the world.” I can’t think of a better place to have grace-filled spiritual conversations than the heart of a thoroughly secular environment where “the walls have ears.” This includes both customers and staff.
Clearly, businesses like porn shops and places that sell drug paraphernalia should be avoided unless God specifically leads you to bring the gospel there, but a small-town restaurant can be a fertile ground for significant ministry, even if you don’t subscribe to all its views.
++++++++++++
To what extent are you uncomfortable frequenting businesses that express views you disagree with? Where would you draw the line?
Is it wrong to buy from a place that supports views you reject? Have you thought through the fact that any product or service you buy could very well have ties – either through corporate ownership, funding from various mutual funds, or charities they support – to organizations you don’t like?
How well can you explain the gospel in terms someone with zero spiritual background can understand?
“It is not those who are well who need a doctor, but those who are sick. I didn’t come to call the righteous but sinners.”
(Jesus in Matthew 2:17)