Seeing Clearly
For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)
Insight
Picture a young child squinting and straining to see the world around them. They may not even realize that their vision is less than clear. But then comes the day when they put on a pair of glasses. As they peer through those lenses, the once-blurry landscape sharpens into focus. Colors become more vibrant, details emerge, and the world takes on a new dimension.
In a similar way, encountering Jesus can be like donning a pair of glasses that brings everything into clarity. Seeing the world through the lens of Jesus' love, grace, and forgiveness can completely transform how we view ourselves, others, and the world around us.
Today's verse reminds us of our intrinsic value and purpose in Christ. Through the Jesus lens, we see ourselves not as products of comparison or self-doubt, but as uniquely crafted masterpieces designed by God for a specific purpose.
Through the Jesus lens, we see ourselves as we are – not through the distorted filters of comparison, performance, or self-doubt. Just as that child's first pair of glasses revealed a more precise reality, encountering Jesus reveals our identity as beloved children of God, flaws and all. With this perspective, we're set free from the weight of societal expectations and empowered to embrace our uniqueness.
Now, consider the way this lens transforms how we see others. Think about how that child, with their newfound clarity of vision, starts to notice the unique qualities of the people around them. In the same way, the Jesus lens allows us to see beyond outward appearances and labels. Jesus saw people's hearts and souls and calls us to do the same.
With the Jesus lens on, our relationships shift. We're no longer quick to judge or hold grudges, but we're moved to extend grace and understanding. We start seeing everyone as fellow travelers on this life journey, each with their struggles and stories. This lens prompts us to embody compassion and love, creating connections that go beyond the surface.
Now, let's widen the scope and apply this lens to the world around us. In a society often marked by division and discord, the Jesus lens reveals a different reality – one where we're all interconnected. Just as that child's glasses brought clarity to their vision, the Jesus lens brings clarity to our understanding of our shared humanity and the image of God within each person.
With this perspective, we become agents of change, challenging injustice and inequality. Just as Jesus crossed boundaries of culture and class, we're called to care for and contribute to the world around us, entering places of brokenness, pain, and difficulty. This lens empowers us to be the hands and feet of Jesus as we offer the world a way of hope that remains confident regardless of our circumstances.
So, as we navigate life's journey, let's put on the Jesus lens and embrace the transformation it offers. Let's remember that our identity is rooted in God's love, our relationships are to be marked by empathy, and our world can be changed through Christ-centered perspectives.
Let's wholeheartedly welcome the transformation that the Jesus lens brings – a transformation that takes us from striving to resting, judging to loving, and dividing to uniting. It's a perspective that invites us to live authentically, love deeply, and profoundly impact the world around us. So, here's to seeing ourselves, others, and the world through the eyes of Jesus and to a life transformed by His perspective – a life filled with compassion, understanding, and unwavering love.
Reflection
How has the world's definition of identity and worth shaped your self-perception? How can you embrace the truth that your value is rooted in being a cherished child of God, seen through the Jesus lens?
Think about a relationship in your life that could benefit from a shift in perspective. How might viewing that person through the eyes of Jesus – with empathy, grace, and understanding – transform your interaction?
Prayer
God, help us see ourselves through Your eyes – as valuable, unique, and deeply loved creations. In moments of doubt and comparison, remind us that our identity is found in You alone. Lord, grant us the grace to view others through the same lens of compassion that Jesus demonstrated. Open our hearts to understand and love them beyond the surface, just as You love us. May our relationships be marked by grace and unity, reflecting the heart of Your Son. May our lives be a testimony to the power of Your love and the transformation it brings. Amen.