October 9, 2024 Think RED

Published October 9, 2024

Wednesday, October 9, 2024

Think RED

Do nothing from selfish ambition or empty conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves.  Let each of you look not to your own interests but to the interests of others. Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:3-5



I got my first job at 14, working at a supermarket in Florida as a “customer service associate”—which is just a fancy way of saying I bagged groceries. I actually loved it because the place felt like a bit of a time warp. I had to wear a shirt, tie, and apron, and our uniform colors were dark blue, coral pink, and light green—a color palette straight out of a 1950s Florida advertisement. But what really made this grocery store unique was its focus on customer service. One summer, they sent out flyers and pins reminding us to “Think RED,” which stood for:
  • Recognize: Acknowledge any customer within 10 feet with a friendly, “Hi there! Finding everything okay?”
  • Empathize: Put yourself in the customer’s shoes, no matter their situation.
  • Deliver: Whether it’s helping them find an item or walking them to their car, make sure they get what they need.
​Today’s Bible passage comes from Paul’s letter to the Philippians, written while he was in prison. He wasn’t thrilled with some of their behavior and reminded them to follow Christ’s example of humility: to think of others’ needs before their own. This passage calls for a radical shift in mindset—valuing others above ourselves. For a community steeped in selfishness, this approach required a complete transformation toward an others-focused perspective.

Honestly, my boss at the grocery store could’ve just handed us Philippians 2:3-5 instead of the flyer! But I guess the corporate consultants knew how catchy acronyms could be.

Let’s apply the “Think RED” principles in a spiritual context (feel free to use it in or out of the grocery store!):
  • Recognize: When we see a new neighbor or a visitor at church, do we greet them with a warm welcome?
  • Empathize: When someone shares something personal, do we truly listen and offer compassion?
  • Deliver: As the body of Christ, do we bring hope and love to others, shining as a light in a world that can often feel dark?
Pray: Lord, open my eyes to those around me who need to be recognized, welcomed, and loved. Grant me a heart of empathy, so that I may listen deeply and walk with others through their struggles. And guide my actions, so that I may deliver your hope and kindness in all that I do. Help me to follow your example of humility, putting others before myself, and reflecting your light in this world. Amen.

With faith, hope, and love,

Eric Smith