A few days ago I wrote how Target stores have decided to no longer permit the Salvation Army from collecting donations in front of their stores. Big mistake.
Today, the headline read Church Leaders Announce Christmas Boycott of Target Stores.
Now, I do not necessarily believe that it is the Church's responsibility to boycott businesses as I don't think it really provides a witness that says to the world, "Hey, we want to have what they have". But at the same time, I am pleased to see that Target is going to pay for their incredibly stupid and insensitive move.
The Salvation Army will lose approximately $9 MILLION dollars due to Target's decision. I think Target ought to feel the wrath of those who are disappointed.
Target may certainly choose who they wish to have solicit on their front step. And shoppers may certainly choose to shop elsewhere.
What goes around comes around.
It's Del.icio.us!
Furl It!
December 11, 2004 10:59 AM
And true christian love shines again.
December 11, 2004 05:49 PM
Hmm, the Mayor closes with a statement that refers to one bearing the consequences of one's actions and Marco relates the statement to Christianity. Well done Marco! One of the principles brought out in the Bible is that of "reaping what one sows." Once again I find myself appreciating your insight.
December 11, 2004 08:15 PM
You two are quite entertaining.
I mentioned that organized boycotts tend to not work for the cause of Christ. They might make a difference in the economic or social structure, but they don't change hearts. Still it is hard not to applaud when justice takes place.
It's easy to attack Christians when they make their voices heard. Non-Christians do just as many stupid, arrogant and foolish things, if not more. It's just that people aren't watching them to see what they do so they get away with it. Seriously, how many non-Christians have to worry about who is watching them to see if the way they live their lives is worthy of emulating?
Those who hold themselves up to a higher standard are easy targets for those who can't wait to shoot them down. It makes the critic erroneously feel better about themselves.
December 11, 2004 10:42 PM
Just a very brief (amazing for me) comment here. As you know, I am not Christian, but agnostic, but I DEFINITELY hold myself to a higher standard than the general riffraff that I see. I live my life trying to exemplify high ideals and be an example of righteousness to others, especially children since I work with them. I may promote free thought and makin one's own best decisions in life, but I for one DO try to uphold higher ideals, although I am FAR from perfect. I felt this way all through high school and college when many "Christians" were out getting drunk and high all the time and then claiming they were better than others because they were "saved" by Jesus. Yes, plenty of non-Christians do bad things, but so do plenty of Christians. And even non-Christians are spotlighted and examined when they are in positions of being a role-model to others. Sometimes, people just point out the hypocrisys they see in many Christians. Remember, belief in Jesus doe not ALWAYS equal righteousness and morality, just as people who do not believ are not always "Godless" and morally devoid.
December 12, 2004 12:55 AM
Robert,
I agree wholeheartedly. There are a few considerations here.
First, realize that not everyone who calls themself a Christian truly IS a Christian.
Secondly, understand that Christians are just as susceptible to the temptations as anyone else. And theologically speaking, it can be send that Christians are MORE vulnerable. If you believe the Bible, you believe in spiritual warfare. That means that although satan and his minions may never have the soul of a Christian, he desires nothing more than to render them completely ineffective as witnesses for God. It rarely surprises me when I hear of a preacher or Christian leader falling prey to some sin.
Thirdly, understand that many so-called Christian denominations teach legalism, that is, dogmatic doctrine which does not FREE people as Jesus did. Instead it binds them with a long list of do's and don'ts. This makes the Christian walk a BURDEN instead of FREEING. This is why you hear of many preacher's kids falling away. Just because the parents go to church and take the kids every week does NOT mean they are going to make the right choices. Rebellion is fostered in a legalistic environment.
I do believe that many non-believers hold themselves to a high moral standard.
It is interesting though when one considers where that high standard comes from. Opening a can of philosophical worms, a thing (or person) can not give itself morality. Our morality is determined based on a standard. Read C.S. Lewis' Mere Christianity. He makes an excellent case for how that inherent moral code MUST come from a being greater than ourselves.
Thanks for your comments!
Joel
December 12, 2004 12:58 AM
The irony about this is the fact that you're upset with Target instead of upset with the people supposed to be doing the giving.
First off, you said previously that Target already gives a lot of money to charity. They ALREADY do good things for people.
The people that put their money in the little red cans are normal folks just doing some shopping.
What's more sad? The fact that Target stopped allowing any charity to panhandle in front of their stores, or the fact that the people who normally would be dropping a few coins in the cans aren't going to do it this year because it's not convenient anymore? You're right about not changing hearts on this one. Obviously their hearts weren't really in it.
Also, here's a hypothetical question for you. If this 'boycott' worked and caused Target to have to layoff a few 'Christian' employees, would it have been worth it?
You said: You two are quite entertaining.
Thanks! I try to be!
You said: Seriously, how many non-Christians have to worry about who is watching them to see if the way they live their lives is worthy of emulating?
Totally agree with you. It's also funny how when confronted with the 'Are you acting like a Christian' line, they actually get defensive instead of, well, acting like a Christian. ie. WWJD?
December 17, 2004 06:13 PM
I'm not upset with the people who give. Not in the least. I'm upset that Target is acting uncharitably towards an organization which has become a holiday tradition for millions of Americans. This is going to cost the Salvation Army something like $9 million. No small potatoes.
December 19, 2004 01:12 AM
I wish the people that complain about Target's decision would just put their money where their mouth is. $9 million dollars could still be raised if people weren't so lazy that they had to have the till within arm's reach.