Ever feel like you’re swimming against the current? Maybe you’re dealing with unfair treatment at work, struggling to address your mental health, or wanting to fight social injustice but don’t know where to start. Well, Jesus was the ultimate system disruptor. Back in the day, His mission was spreading love, and let’s just say, it didn't make him exactly popular with the religious leaders. They were focused on rules and regulations, but Jesus? He was about heart and soul.
Let's take the time when Jesus healed on the Sabbath. The clergy members were furious because, according to their guidelines, no work should be done on the Sabbath. But Jesus was like, “Seriously? You’re upset because I healed someone?” He made it clear that love and compassion should always come first, even if it meant breaking a few rules.
And let’s not forget when Jesus hung out with tax collectors and sinners. The scandal! It was unbelievable that Jesus would associate with such people. But Jesus showed love to everyone, especially those who were marginalized and looked down upon.
But what about the rest of us? There are so many things average people would love to challenge but often don’t: Many people want to speak up about unfair treatment or toxic work environments but fear retaliation or losing their jobs. People often avoid addressing their mental or physical health issues due to stigma or fear of judgment. Many feel passionate about fighting racism, sexism, or other forms of discrimination but worry about backlash or not knowing how to make a difference. Setting boundaries with friends, family, or colleagues can be tough, and many avoid it to keep the peace.
So, what can we learn here? Jesus taught us that love is the ultimate rule. It’s easy to get caught up in systems and traditions, but at the end of the day, love should be our guiding principle. When we see someone in need, we should help them, even if it means bending or breaking a few rules. When we encounter people who are different from us, we should show them love and compassion, just like Jesus did.
Next time you feel like you’re going against the grain, remember Jesus. He wasn’t afraid to challenge the status quo and show love in radical ways. Let’s take a page from His book and make love our top priority. After all, love is the real game-changer.