Gaze Intently

Years ago, I drove past the area where they were building the 9/11 Memorial in New York City. I was taken by how one of the dogs was gazing at his handler, waiting for what the next move might be.  While I joked at the time that it is the same way I look at my pets to see what they might want me to do next, we also have a precious spiritual analogy.

We serve the risen Christ. We are to gaze at Him to enjoy Him, learn from Him, and know our next step. Picturing the dog watching his owner made Psalm 32:8 really come alive,

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go;

I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”

The dog had purpose, and he knew his purpose came from his owner’s commands. God doesn’t send our instruction and next step through a cold system of religion. We only get our instruction and guidance by close relationship as we personally abide in Him and look into His face. We keep spiritual eye contact with Him through Bible Study and prayer; acknowledging Him in all we do. He doesn’t offer occasional opportunities to seek His face, but insists we gaze at Him continually as He is always with us.

I think of the song, “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.”  It causes us to know Him better, and He’ll show us what to do for the good of His glorious Kingdom. Lord, keep our gaze steadfast on You.