Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. 1 Corinthians 13:12 (NLT).
Old Eyes
I started seeing things with a blur as cataracts developed. Over the years, they got worse and my eye doctor told me it was time to remove them. Doubt gnawed at me as I questioned whether the surgery would grant me the clarity of sight I needed. During the testing, they made me look at dim light eye charts to simulate nighttime driving. Every letter on the eye chart appeared as a smudged, indecipherable blur, making it impossible for me to see. I knew I needed the surgery.
I sat in the waiting room on the day of the surgery, and I couldn’t help but reflect on the moments I had taken clear vision for granted. With each step closer to the operating room, the weight of the decision to undergo the surgery settled upon me. Was I making the right decision? Fear tightened its grip on my heart, whispering doubts about the potential risks and complications that awaited me on the operating table.
Biblical Eyes
Did the Apostle Paul have cataracts when he wrote 1 Corinthians 13:12? Paul wants us to understand that our imperfect eyes limit our understanding of the Bible. Our vision is limited. Life and circumstances can make our sight blurry. Consider how your own limited understanding of the Bible has influenced your beliefs and interpretations. Reflect on moments when your imperfect vision hindered your comprehension of God’s Word.
We can’t comprehend the deep things of God. It’s like looking at the universe through a telescope and only seeing a two-dimensional reflection. We only see an unclear image of Christ in His holy Word, filtered through our limited understanding of scriptures. But one day, we will see Christ face to face, with no barriers.
New Eyes
I realized that looking through my old lens was like peering through a smudged glass, distorting the once-bright palette into a dull and muted spectrum. The corrected eye revealed a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, painting the world in rich hues of crimson, emerald, and sapphire. And the simple act of waking up and being greeted by a clear, unobstructed view filled me with a profound sense of gratitude, as if a veil of darkness lifted from my mornings. The results of my cataract surgery opened a whole new world for my tired, old eyes.
Seeking New Eyes of Faith
There is no surgery to clear of faith vision, so how do we improve our eyes of faith? We can keep our dim eyes on Jesus and follow His examples. The song “Eyes on Jesus” by Scott Willis offers some brilliant advice on the subject:
- See the world as Jesus sees it.
- Focus on people who try to live each day.
- That’s how we’ll build the kingdom, bringing hope to those who need it.
- Let’s keep our eyes on Jesus. And he’ll show us the way.
Prayer
Lord, I ask for your help to keep my dim eyes on you. Please let me see you every day and be open to the changes you have for me. Thank you for your words that help me learn and correct my vision. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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Grace and Peace to you,
Yvonne M. Morgan is a Christian #author, #blogger, and #speaker. #BibleGatewayPartner
Matthew 28:19 “Therefore, GO and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
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