Jump Start # 3811
Matthew 13:16 “But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear.”
Back home we finished up a three part Sunday evening series based on this passage. It was one of what we here call our chair series. We move the pulpit out, place a table and a couple of chairs and we two preachers discuss back and forth a themed lesson. Using this passage, we took a journey looking at discernment. Eyes that see, is how Jesus describes it.
Our verse comes from an explanation as to why the Lord taught so much in parables. Matthew 13 is filled with parables. Some got it. Many didn’t. It was the discerning hearts, or the eyes that see, that made a difference.
Having eyes that see is a wonderful spiritual quality that is common among the mature. They have learned to take their eyes off of themselves and now they look to others. They do not dwell upon the problems of the day. They look to the Savior. And, when we can teach others to have eyes that see, so many great and powerful things begin to take place.
Some thoughts for us:
First, those who do not see, have to be told. Over and over, there are opportunities, things to be done, places to serve, but many never see those things. You tell them and some will go. But, what a blessing to have the eyes that see without having to be told. Eyes that recognize a discouraged heart and they go to encourage. Eyes to see a visitor, and they approach with a smile on their face and a hand extended in love.
Nehemiah saw the fear of his people. He saw it. He then spoke to the people, reminding them that our Lord is great and awesome. Parents need to see when their children are hurting on the inside. Shepherds need to see when the sheep are struggling. Eyes that see.
Second, when we develop discerning eyes, our days will be filled with ways to serve others. So many things to do. So many to drop a note of encouragement to. So many to call. So many, not just here, but throughout the kingdom, to encourage and help. The mature Christian never feels bored. He has too much to do. The mature Christian sees so many good things that can be done.
Third, once our eyes see, we will never see the old way again. Not only do we witness the many opportunities to serve, but we see the many ways God blesses us and enriches our lives. From the song bird in the morning, to the evening rain, God’s hand is everywhere. Opened eyes leads to a richer prayer life. Opened eyes yields to great praise of God.
Some only see problems when they look around. Nothing to compliment. Nothing to praise. Only complaints. Only criticism. They see only things that someone else ought to fix. Such eyes dwell in misery and unhappiness. Such eyes are never content. Oh, to have eyes that see.
So, how does one get such eyes? How do I develop a discerning heart?
First, these things come by faith. The more of the Gospels that I pour into my heart, the more I see as God wants me to.
Second, these things come from taking a step away from our culture. Our times are selfish. “Why should I,” ought never be asked by a disciple. Our world will ask that question. Doing as little as possible and as fast as possible, may be the choice of some, but not the disciple. He’s interested in quality. And, quality takes time. Quality takes effort. Quality is bring excellence to all things.
Peter told his audience to add virtue or moral excellence to their faith. Going out of your way to present goodness is what that means. Be diligent to do that. Sloppy, substandard, below par doesn’t belong in the service of God. Do your best. You cannot be the best ever, but you can do your best. Song leaders, work on your Sunday songs Saturday evening. Practice. Even for the seasoned song leader. Preacher, run look over your sermon, your Powerpoint and your handouts. Bring your best. Those leading the Lord’s Supper, don’t wing it. Bring your best. Excellence. Virtue. That’s the picture.
Eyes that see…
Roger