20/20 Vision: Eyes On Jesus Sample

The Unseen 

In Colossians 3:1-2 we read, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Things on earth are short-lived, but things in heaven are everlasting. In a world overflowing with distractions, we need to know where to focus. We need to be able to turn from all the glittering trinkets and shiny distractions and keep looking up. 

As you set goals and dreams for 2020, remember that according to Hebrews 12:1, ”we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses”. Although we cannot see these witnesses, be encouraged that an unseen cloud of witnesses is cheering you on. Since this group is watching, we are to get rid of sin and all that weighs us down. We are called in Hebrews 12:2-3 to “run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

Although we lack the experience of the early Church in walking with Jesus face to face, we gain the post resurrection experience of having Jesus dwell in our heart. We read this verse yesterday, but let’s look at it again with fresh eyes. 1 Peter 1:8-9 describes the beauty of the unseen with these words, “Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” Jesus came to earth to rescue us and to give us a glimpse of the unseen. 

Eugene Peterson’s translation of 1 Corinthians 13:12 in the Message says, “We don’t yet see things clearly. We’re squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won’t be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We’ll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us!” One day, we will see it all. Until then, may we reside in the Word of God, abide in Jesus Christ, and be mindful of things unseen. 

A Prayer:

Dear Lord, Please set our minds on things above and not on the things of this world. Help us focus on that which is eternal, rather than temporary. Help us with perseverance run our race well. Lord, it is our desire to know you, to love you, and to be filled with your joy. Lord, please help us reside in your Holy Word, abide in Jesus, and be mindful of things unseen.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.