Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:18, “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” To “fix” means to be focused and concerned about and to keep on thinking about something constantly. Focus is so important for the Christian today because there are so many distractions and diversions in life that can lead us down the path of mediocrity, complacency and despair. While there is always the danger that the Christian might fall into heresy, immorality and indecency, I believe the biggest challenge for the Christian is to avoid the “no man’s land” of mediocrity and complacency for it is here that we are least likely to see how impotent we have become regarding the Worship, Work and Will of our Lord. It is the land of ”OK” where the norm is the “routine” and the standard is “it’s not so bad” as measured in comparison to the standard of the world and others around us. It is in this land of comfort, complacency or even self-centered anxiety that Satan can most effectively gain a foothold as we no longer take bold and sacrificial steps to preserve, protect, promote and advance the Christian cause. Thus, our effectiveness as a follower of Christ is neutralized and in effect paralyzed as we lose our focus and as a result our direction and motivation.

 

The Lord speaking through John in Revelation 3:16 called this the land of the “lukewarm” and said this about it, “So, because you are lukewarm-- neither hot nor cold-- I am about to spit you out of my mouth.”  We settle into the land of “lukewarm” as we make our personal and immediate concerns the ultimate concerns of life, which is so easy to do in the midst of financial crisis, bailouts and busyness. Paul, however, calls us back to a proper focus in reminding us that the current affairs we “see” every day, while important, are temporary and if we are not careful will blind and divert us from that which is unseen and eternal, resulting in a life that is selfish, narrow in its focus, despondent and at best “lukewarm”. God has called us to pursue and fulfill a purpose here on earth and has promised, prepared and provided eternal life after our earthly existence in a place that so far exceeds earthly life in excellence that it cannot be described. All who keep their focus on the ultimate “unseen” things of God and make it their purpose and pursuit in life to actively and sacrificially do the will of God, will experience an abundant life now and a life beyond imagination in eternity with God. This has always been God’s plan and purpose for you and neither circumstances, administrations, courts nor crises will ever change it. Look out and look up. The eternal loving God loves you, has made specific provisions for your life, and is COMPLETELY in control of the world He created and sustains. Make your life count for something of eternal significance by getting your focus back on the Ultimate unseen things of God and therein you will find your motivation for a life that not only pleases God but provides, depth, meaning, purpose, peace and hope to you and all those touched by your life! On what are you focused in life?

 

You are a wonderful congregation! Be kind and gracious to those around you and let the love of Jesus radiate through you. Make it a great day and see you this Sunday. Remember, invite someone to church, invite someone to Jesus!

 

Blessings, Pastor Dave