REFLECTIONS FROM ▶ MELINDA JOY'S MESSAGE ON 8/25/24
Have you ever thought about the word “contagious”? It usually brings to mind things we want to avoid, like a virus or a bad mood. But what if there’s something truly good we could catch and spread—something like the contagious love of Jesus? This love isn’t something to fear or avoid; it’s something that can transform lives, communities, and even entire cities.
What Does It Mean to Be Contagious?
To be contagious means to have an emotion, feeling, or attitude that spreads and affects others. Imagine walking into a room and seeing everyone there uplifted and full of joy simply because someone brought in a little bit of the contagious love of Jesus. This love is about letting go of judgment and embracing everyone, regardless of who they are or where they come from.
Self-reflection: How do you affect the people around you? Are you spreading joy and kindness, or something else?
Breaking Down Barriers
One of the most powerful aspects of the contagious love of Jesus is its ability to break down barriers. In the Bible, Jesus often surrounded Himself with people who were considered outcasts or “disreputable characters.” He didn’t shy away from those who were different or judged by society. Instead, He welcomed them with open arms, showing that everyone deserves a seat at the table.
Think about Zacchaeus, the tax collector who climbed a tree just to see Jesus. Despite being looked down upon by others, Jesus chose to dine with him, saying, “Today is my day to be a guest in your home.” This action wasn’t about social status or public opinion; it was about seeing beyond the surface and recognizing the value in every individual.
Self-reflection: Are there barriers you have built up that keep you from connecting with others? How can you tear them down to spread love more freely?
Mercy Over Religion
Jesus’ love is all about mercy, not rigid rules or judgment. The religious leaders of His time often criticized Him for associating with those they deemed unworthy. However, Jesus made it clear that His mission was to extend mercy to all, not to enforce a checklist of religious behaviors. He showed us that it’s more important to love and accept people than to judge them based on how many religious rules they follow.
Self-reflection: Do you find yourself being judgmental towards others based on your standards? How can you practice more mercy and less judgment?
Being the Answer to Someone’s Prayer
Every day, people around us are praying for hope, for someone to show them a different way, a way filled with love and acceptance. The contagious love of Jesus calls us to be that answer. It invites us to step out of our comfort zones and be present with those who need us, to offer a listening ear, a kind word, or even just a smile.
In one story shared, a simple conversation in a bagel shop became a moment of connection and transformation. Two people who were struggling found comfort in someone who was willing to share a bit of her story and offer the love of Jesus. That’s what being contagious looks like—spreading love, hope, and joy wherever we go.
Self-reflection: When was the last time you offered a bit of love to someone in need? What small act can you do today to be the answer to someone’s prayer?
Embracing Our True Purpose
The contagious love of Jesus challenges us to embrace our true purpose, which is not about following a set of religious rules but about spreading love and kindness. Jesus didn’t let the opinions of others deter Him from His mission, and neither should we. We are called to be light in the darkness, to be a source of hope and joy in a world that often feels lost and broken.
Self-reflection: What is holding you back from fully living out your purpose? How can you better embody the love and acceptance that Jesus showed?
A Call to Action
The contagious love of Jesus is powerful and transformative. It’s a love that breaks down barriers, prioritizes mercy over judgment, and sees the intrinsic value in every person. It’s a love that compels us to reach out, to connect, and to be a beacon of hope in a world that so desperately needs it.
So, who have you invited into your life lately? Who have you shared this contagious love with? Remember, you don’t have to look far to find someone in need of a little bit of Jesus’ love. Let’s be intentional about spreading this love, not just within our own circles but to everyone we meet.
Self-reflection: Who in your life needs to experience this contagious love today? How will you reach out to them?
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