First off, because Jesus isn’t cranky, it’s awfully hard to spot him. That edgy voice, sigh of annoyance or rolling of the eyes doesn’t even remotely resemble the Son of God.

Nonetheless, Mr. Crank is made, and loved, by God. Moreover, the boundless love of Christ is alive in you. That infinite love should be able to deftly handle Mr. Crank, his irritating wife, and their annoying children to boot. Plus, Jesus promised to give us special credit when we love those who don’t love us.

As to how, all the standard customer service techniques apply. Be unfailingly courteous and helpful. Consider how Jesus must have masterfully handled difficult and demanding clients in his carpentry business.

Above all, control yourself and don’t respond in kind. That’s not easy, since anger is a natural response. You might find it helpful to ponder relevant advice from Proverbs:

• A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
• Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.
• He who restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.
• The vexation of a fool is known at once, but the prudent man ignores an insult.
• He who keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.

Patience is key. With patience, a ruler may be persuaded, and a soft tongue will break a bone. A modern rendition might be: With patience, a cranky customer may be persuaded, and a soft tongue will make the sale.