Heavenly Focus

Once the God-focused mindset begins to take root, a different outlook starts to take over, guiding words and actions accordingly. At first, these changes are small and may differ primarily in motivation, but eventually they will become noticeable to all. Old activities are measured by the new yardstick and those that are found wanting are changed or are replaced completely. New practices are adopted to meet new priorities and together, old and new drive an updated self. The changes are rarely accomplished without risk and maybe some pain, but the results are well worth the effort.

Initially, at least, believers make sacrifices, analogous to surgical interventions, cutting off excess fat here and maybe bypassing a blockage there, and while the incisions may be difficult and painful, the wounds are stitched together and the remainder of the body is left intact. Once the cuts have healed and the scars begin to fade, a somewhat healthier life results. But if treatment does not progress to even more difficult therapy, the improvement will be temporary and the surgery will have to be repeated. To be more fully healthy, additional lifestyle modifications will need to occur. Spiritual health is much the same - habits that are clearly sinful can, with effort, be ended and such growth provides early rewards, but deep spiritual wholeness is much more than absence of obvious sin. Eventually, even good habits may need to be re-worked to be more completely in line with Christ's example.

From the inside, change may appear slow or uneven and the new practices may not seem to be a good fit. Initial uncertainties may give way to impatience, even anger or shame as old ways die hard. But change is possible, desirable, even required. Because growth means change and without growth, the soul dies.

From the outside, change is much more evident, to those who are watching. What seems like slow going on the inside, looks like patience from the outside. What appears to be halting progress on the inside, looks like courage and daring from the outside. And what seems timid and inadequate on the inside, looks like caring empathy from the outside. The self still sees failure and blame when it looks inward, but the focus is changing and what is near becomes blurry as the lens is moved to show others sharply. And as we move to see others more clearly, God's Kingdom comes into view. The two are inseparable, adjusting to one centers the other. So as Lenten practices bring alignment with God's will, attention is drawn first to neighbor, then to enemy. And as the well being of others becomes more important, nearness to Christ results. Both are necessary to bring grace and peace and the presence of both reveals inner beauty for all to see.

May your Lenten focus expand to include a glimpse of God, in your neighbor's face.