The speaker was talking about something that happens with the mind.
I forget what it’s called now, but there was a term used for what the mind does in the following scenario. If you’ve been desiring a new car of a certain type and brand, you begin to notice that same type seemingly everywhere you go. Same thing about any relatively common product or item.
I can definitely testify to that. Not necessarily in the case of cars, but when I wanted a particular game (back in the day), and got, it seemed as if everyone was playing it. Now the reality is those who were playing had always been playing it, but it was my focus and particular vision that picked up on it more than I had when I was apathetic towards it.
Lately I was wondering what that would be like if the mind was completely focussed on Jesus. Not just reading passively about Him, but being consumed by Him in thought, word and deed. If the focus was filled by Him, how would that affect how interactions took place with others? How would it determine the usage of resources? How would it influence activities and pastimes?
What would happen if it was if everywhere you turned you could see Jesus? See Him in the beggar on the street. See Him in the shop assistant having a bad day. See Him when ringing up a company about the washing machine not working. See Him visiting a colleague in a coffee shop (though of course you stick to orange juice).
I’m fairly certain a lot of current behaviours and attitudes would be adjusted. The crisis that previously lead to the head-in-the-sand reaction is now seen as an opportunity to actively trust God and watch His wisdom enable us to productively address the system.
The argument we were about to have with the spouse over an incident turns into a beautiful expression of meekness and grace in preferring the other person’s right to your own.
What at first might have been my problem turns out to be God’s time to shine. What appeared to be our issue emerges as the Jesus opportunity to show compassion in action.
It does not overlook hurt feelings and traumas, but it does not let them obscure the reality that the Prince of Peace has overcome the Prince of Darkness. Now we can walk in the light of who He is, as we keep our eyes on Him.
So it looks as there everywhere we look, we just see Jesus.
(Photo by eberhard grossgasteiger on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
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