The Contagious Christian

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." - Matthew 5:16

Have you ever met someone whose positive attitude and genuine spirit made you want to know what their secret was? That's the idea behind being a "contagious Christian." It's not about forcing religious beliefs on anyone or being pushy. Instead, it's about living in such a way that your life naturally sparks curiosity in others, making them want to understand the source of your character. You are making an impact, what kind is it?

At the heart of a contagious Christian's life is true joy. This isn't just the kind of happiness that comes from good things happening. It's a deep, steady peace that comes from a relationship with God. This joy remains even when life gets tough. Think about it: when someone faces challenges with calm and confidence, it stands out. It offers a sense of hope to those around them who may be struggling. This joy is attractive because it's real and lasting, not dependent on things that can change in a moment.

Love is another key quality. This goes beyond just liking people who are easy to get along with. It means showing kindness and care to everyone, even those who are different or difficult. It's about treating everyone with respect, listening to their point of view, and helping those in need, whether they're friends or strangers. When people see this kind of love in action, it can be a powerful example. It shows that there's a way to live that's not based on selfishness or judgment.

Honesty and integrity are also crucial. A contagious Christian is someone who can be trusted. They tell the truth, even when it's hard, and they do the right thing, even when no one is watching. This builds a reputation of reliability and shows that their faith isn't just something they talk about on Sundays. It's a core part of who they are. In a world where trust can be hard to find, this kind of honesty is very appealing.

Strength and hope in tough times are also important. Life throws curveballs at everyone. A contagious Christian doesn't pretend that these problems don't exist, but they face them with a sense of hope and faith in God's plan. They believe that even in the middle of difficulties, there is a reason to remain hopeful. This can be incredibly encouraging to others who are going through their own struggles. It demonstrates that it's possible to get through hard times with your spirit intact. Most people who don't know what to do do nothing... Don't be most people.

It's important to remember that being a contagious Christian isn't about being perfect. No one is. It's about trying to grow as a person, learning from mistakes, and showing a willingness to rely on God's help and guidance. When people see this humility and dependence, they see that faith is something real and helpful, not just a set of rules to follow.

Ultimately, being a contagious Christian is less about what you say and more about how you live. It's about allowing the qualities of joy, love, honesty, and hope to shine through your actions and interactions with others. When these qualities are present in a person's life, they can have a powerful influence, "spreading" to those around them and making them want to learn more.