We possess an astounding measure of influence on those around us.
Indirect words we mutter and actions we think private can serve as catalyst for significant changes in the lives of others. And this impact certainly isn’t limited to only positive or negative outcomes. The ‘spillage’ we produce can help, hinder, or distract even the most self-reliant of individuals. It is not a matter of ‘if’ we impact people, but how. Surprisingly, it is something we spend almost no time contemplating.
We would be wise then to stop and assess what exactly we are inundating those around us with? Or more simply put, considered and were even deliberate about what we had spilling over.
“And may the Master pour on the love so it fills your lives and splashes over on everyone around you, just as it does from us to you.”
In this letter, Paul is expressing to the people of Thessalonica that he hopes the love of God fills up their lives and splashes onto everyone around them. Notice that Paul doesn’t limit this splash to just other believers, or compatriots, but includes “everyone.” I think this is because we are inherently limited in our ability to control this bleed over. I.E. the positive pieces of our lives pervade our work, home, and social interactions, as do the negative. We can’t be a crude tyrant at work and not expect that to impact our families when we get home. We are not nearly as good at compartmentalizing as we think.
So let us relieve ourselves of the stress of compartmentalization and live well instead across the spectrum. Let us overflow goodness in the lives of all those around us. In this way we might live deliberately to the benefit of all who may come into contact with us, even if only on the periphery.