Sunday Seed Thoughts: Open Eyes

Open my eyes, that I may see
glimpses of truth thou hast for me;
place in my hand the wonderful key
that shall unclasp and set me free.

The words of this hymn, written by Midwesterner, Clara H. Scott, have been sung by Christians for over 125 years.

Each stanza speaks to an increasing awareness and receptivity to God’s Word. Open eyes. Open ears. Open mouth. Open heart.

The metaphor of “open eyes” is common in the Bible. “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law,” penned the Psalmist (Ps. 119:18). Jesus warned of closed eyes (Matt. 13:15). And Paul prayed that “the eyes of your understanding be enlightened” (Eph. 1:18).

“Eyes that look are common; eyes that see are rare,” wrote J. Oswald Sanders in his book Spiritual Leadership. Sanders’ words address the ability to see below the surface. To look beyond the obvious. To view with insight and understanding. To really see things in this manner requires perception. Recognition. And discernment.

In that regard, we’re reminded of the two men on the road to Emmaus, who were saddened by Jesus’ death, and further perplexed about the news of an empty tomb. When Jesus joined them on the road, “their eyes were restrained so that they did not know him” (Lk.24:16).

However, after Jesus expounded to them the Scriptures “their eyes were opened and they knew Him” (Lk. 24:31).

They were so excited about their enlightenment that, although it was nearing sundown, they turned around and walked the 7 miles back to Jerusalem to share their good news with the disciples.

That’s what open eyes do when we really get a good look at Jesus.

Today, as we gather to worship, let’s open our eyes.

Open your eyes…

…To Jesus’ message.

…To the meaning of hymns that we sing.

…To ministry endeavors that may be offered to us.

…To the significance of the mutual fellowship we share.

…To our true mission for which God has placed us on earth.

…To the monetary opportunities to support the Lord’s work and share with those in need.

…To the call of being a messenger of God’s love.

…To God’s mercy and grace, as we approach His Throne.

Open your eyes. Your ears. Your mind. Your heart.

Silently now I wait for thee
Ready, my God, thy will to see
Open my heart, illumine me, Spirit divine!!

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman