Parents, we are Typhoid Mary! Officials are telling us to assume we have been infected by the coronavirus so that we can protect other people from getting what we may have. Some reports say that the true infection rate may actually be much higher because many people have it, or have had it and don’t realize it. We can also assume that we are contagious with our attitudes. We need to protect people from our negative attitudes, but we should infect everyone we can with the positive.
A few years ago, I had a ministry office window that opened to the Church’s Child Development Center playground. Just one child began crying for some reason, within about 5 seconds there was a chorus of children all crying in unison. I am certain many of them didn’t even know why they were all crying, but they joined in the mournful drone of half-hearted lamentations anyway. The wise teacher scooped up the hurting child, dried her tears, and redirected all the other children toward something more fun, positive and exciting... and soon after, the playful squeals and laughter returned to normal, even for the one who was hurt. I had to snicker out loud a little. I was not laughing at the poor kid who had a legitimate reason to cry, or even the kids who joined in the dirge, but at myself, knowing that my nature is just the same. I am prone to joining in the whining and complaints of those around me instead of being like the wise teacher, who helps redirect attitudes back to the positive.
Jesus tells us, "You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine? before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 (CSBBible)
If you are hurting, sit in the Teacher’s lap a moment and talk to Him(Jesus), and don’t tap that first domino of negativity with the people around you. Let Him redirect you, dry your tears if necessary, and get you back to being the light that you are. Don’t join the chorus of doom. Jesus tells us..."I am the light of the world; anyone who follows me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the light of life. John 8:12 (NJB)
Hang in there people! God is with us! I’m praying for you all!
