My Eyes Are Fixed On...?

These past few months and weeks have been, to say the least, difficult for all of us.  With a worldwide pandemic upon us, the lockdowns that have ensued, the rise in unemployment, and the negative impact it has all had on our lives, it has all been a bit overwhelming. In the midst of it all, we’ve been smacked in the face by the fact that racial divisions and injustice remain among us as a nation. Add to that, not only the protests that are taking place—which may not be without good cause—but we have had to watch how in some places looting and violence has erupted. The combination of all these things happening at the same time has turned this into a time of great distress.

Although I follow the news pretty regularly, at times I have found it best to turn it off—or, not even turn it on—so as not to become fixated on things that are just outright depressing. With social media posts flying, filled with everyone’s opinions regarding the virus, lockdowns, protests, etc., I’ve had to “unfollow” some people who just seem to love conspiracy theories or those who are practically screaming at you through their posts. I’m sad to say, even some Christians have a way of throwing lots of fuel on the fires that are burning around us rather than speaking life, peace, and hope.  For myself, I find if I’m not careful I can end up with my eyes glued to the news, social media posts, and all the things that are happening around me—and, it will mentally, emotionally, and spiritually do me in!

This past week I read these words from the psalms: “But my eyes are fixed on you, Sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge…” (Psalm 141:8 – NIV) As I read those words, I was challenged to make sure that I don’t allow myself to become fixated on this world and the events that are taking place. Not that I want to fall into a mentality of escapism or deny the realities of the world around us; I don’t want to become “so heavenly-minded” that I become “no earthly good.” But ultimately I know I need to be careful not to allow what is happening in the world to dictate my mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.

I’m not looking to escape from the world around me. But ultimately, I want my relationship with God and his presence in my life to dictate how I respond to pandemics, injustice, and all the other things that may happen. He is the only One who is able to bring peace in the midst of the storm, life in the midst of darkness, justice where there is injustice, and hope for the days ahead.

The choice is ours: To allow our “eyes”—i.e. hearts and minds—to become fixated on the world around us or to fix our eyes on God. We can either focus on our world and all the negative things that are happening (and will continue to take place), allowing ourselves to fall into depression, anger, and despair, or we can focus on the One who offers himself as our refuge, and be filled with peace, life, and hope.   

“Turn your eyes upon Jesus; look full in his wonderful face. And, the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of his glory and grace.” (Jackson)

Have a great day!

Pastor Tim Harris