Love, the Way Jesus Loved

As this new year begins, I’ve been spending time reflecting on what I want to keep at the center of my life, my faith, and this little community we’ve built together.

I keep coming back to one simple word—love.

But not love as a vague idea or a nice sentiment.
Love as Jesus lived it.
Love as He practiced it—day after day, person by person.

So my theme for this year is simple and intentional:

Love, the Way Jesus Loved

When I read the Gospels, I’m struck by how practical Jesus’ love was. He didn’t just talk about love—He embodied it.

He welcomed the stranger.
He noticed the overlooked.
He treated the marginalized with dignity.
He refused to judge or reduce people to labels.
He chose mercy again and again.

Jesus showed us that the measure of a healthy community isn’t power, success, or influence—but how the least among us are treated.

That feels especially important to remember right now.

This year, I want to keep my focus clear and uncluttered. Not on noise, not on division, not on fear—but on Jesus Himself. On His words. His actions. His way of being in the world.

For me, that means returning to questions like:

• How would Jesus love here?

• Who is being overlooked?

• What response brings dignity instead of division?

• What does it look like to be light, rather than loud?

My hope is to soften hearts—starting with my own.
To remember that every person is God’s creation.
To love my neighbor.
To welcome the stranger.
To resist judgment and choose compassion.

Jesus taught that light isn’t meant to dominate—it’s meant to guide. A quiet, steady light on a hill, visible because of love, not power.

This intention will shape what I create and share this year—my words, my designs, my prayers, and the pieces I offer here. Not loudly. Not forcefully. Just faithfully.

Thank you for being here. Thank you for walking alongside me. And thank you for being part of a community rooted in grace, kindness, and love.

Many Blessings,
Marissa

P.S. Tomorrow, I’ll be sharing a small, meaningful release inspired by this theme—created as a gentle reminder of love, practiced the way Jesus practiced it.