Everything I Learned about Christianity, I Learned from Starbucks

Ok...not literally, but let me elaborate. I brag on Starbucks' customer service skills daily. I use the baristas as examples on how to brighten someone's day. In 24 hours, I have consumed over 60 ounces of coffee (yes I have an addiction), but the last couple of days I have felt nostalgic (and jittery). We as Christian's could take a few lessons from these shiny happy people that make my heart swell.

Everyday is a good day at Starbucks. They welcome you into a warm, cozy environment and provide you with exactly what you need. They don't ask questions, and are more than happy to offer encouragement and suggestions for trying something new. If they see you look more tired than usual, they offer a complimentary shot of espresso. Starbucks associates are part of a "team" in a way such that they flow together like a well oiled machine. They express true koinonia by sharing all monetary tips. This last one is a big one: they memorize your name and face and make you feel like they are on a mission specifically for you.

Last night I had the opportunity to have church with some divine people on the patio of a Starbucks and couldn't help but notice the parallelism. Sometimes I feel disappointed because we lack the service aspect more often than not. Church can happen anywhere. Jesus could be the owner of Starbucks, or a barista, or a bum begging for spare change for a cup of joe. Service and community...and Starbucks is where it's at.

I pray that God gives me the capability to be a person with a heart of service and community on a daily basis and gives me frequent epiphanies on how to brighten someone's day simply by glorifying God.