I recently read about a Chicago businessman, Jim Andrews, who is getting some heat from at least one Chicago city council member. This council member isn’t bothered that Andrews has opened a hot dog stand; nor is his issue that Andrews is employing ex-convicts as a way of helping them get back on their feet. His beef is with the name and marketing strategy Andrews has chosen for his new restaurant. Andrews has named his restaurant, “ Felony Franks” and has landed on some slogans, including, “Home of the Misdemeanor Weiner” and “Food so good it’s criminal.”
For folks like me, I think this is genius. And funny. But that city council member isn’t laughing. He said, “This, no matter what anybody says, is not that cute of an idea. It’s a great concept for ex-offenders, but it’s a poor theme for a restaurant.” (My opinion? That City Council member needs to lighten up a bit and broaden his sense of humor.)
Here’s my thought: God is doing this same thing with us. He is employing us, as “sinners” and ex-offenders (and even worse, current and active offenders), in His mission. He is taking the risk of giving us a 2nd chance and trusting us to help carry out His purpose for the world. This 2nd chance is called grace. And we all need it.
No, we’re not a restaurant named, “Felony Franks.” We’re God’s family, and He calls us the “Church.” We’re not the “Home of the Misdemeanor Wiener,” but we are the Body of Christ, home of “sinners saved by grace.” God isn’t selling the world hot dogs (“food so good it’s criminal”). In fact, He’s not “selling” anything. Instead, He is freely offering Jesus, the Bread of Life and the Living Water.
Thank God for grace. And a 2nd chance.
This guy is brilliant! It is great marketing …..everyone is talking about it…and the humor doesn’t hurt anyone.
Wake up America! Have a giggle!