FIXING OUR EYES ON JESUS

Divine Appeal Reflection  - 92

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 92: "I long and I ardently desire souls to fix their eyes on Me and never turn them away. Souls that see themselves overwhelmed with miseries attribute nothing good to themselves." 

This call to unwavering focus on Our Adorable Jesus is a central theme in our spiritual journey, encompassing all aspects of life. Hebrews 12:2 urges us to "fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith," guiding us through life's various circumstances. Our attention must always be fixed on Jesus, regardless of what happens to us. Although it is simple to feel overwhelmed during a time of loss, Jesus tells us that it is in our weakness that His strength is made perfect (2 Corinthians 12:9). Recalling that all good gifts originate from above is vital when we experience gain (James 1:17). St. Francis of Assisi, who embraced poverty to stay focused on Christ, reminds us to "become prayer" rather than just seeking to pray. 

Regardless of how well or sick we are physically, our focus should be on Jesus. According to 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, we are called to use our bodies to serve and exalt God when we are well. As we suffer, we join our pains to Christ's and draw strength from Him to bear our suffering (Colossians 1:24). Suffering greatly herself, St. Thérèse of Lisieux offered her agony to save souls, viewing her illness as a means of being closer to Jesus. There are times in life when everything makes sense and times when everything is quite dark. We celebrate the Lord's direction and favor in the light. We must cling tenaciously to Jesus in the dark, knowing that He is our shepherd guiding us through the valley of the shadow of death (Psalm 23:4). In "Dark Night of the Soul," Saint. John of the Cross shows us that spiritual dryness can lead to a closer union with God. 

According to Philippians 4:4, happiness is a gift from God, and we should express our gratitude and praise while we are joyful. When saddened by our daily endeavors, we should think of Jesus' own sorrow and His assurance that He will console the sorrowful and the bereaved (Matthew 5:4). In her letter, St. Teresa of Avila said, "Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you, all things are passing; God never changes." From youth to old age, Jesus remains our constant help. In youth, we serve Him with energy, setting a foundation of faith (1 Timothy 4:12). As we get older and nearer to Jesus' promises, our attention on Him becomes more intense (Psalm 71:18). The renowned words of St. Augustine, who came to know Christ later in life, said "Late have I loved you, O Beauty, ever ancient, ever new." 

Jesus must remain at the center of the family since it is a domestic church (Ephesians 5:25–33). St. Joseph is a role model for a devout and modest family man who remains focused on doing what God has commanded. As they lead by example, priests and the religious are expected to keep their focus on Jesus and encourage the faithful (1 Peter 5:2-3). This was demonstrated by St. John Vianney, who dedicated many hours to prayer and confession in order to bring many people to Christ. In labor, we work as if for the Lord, finding purpose in our tasks (Colossians 3:23-24). In rest, we enter into Christ's peace (Matthew 11:28). St. Benedict taught the balance of work and prayer, emphasizing that both are pathways to God. Prayer and meditation align our hearts with Christ (Philippians 4:6-7). St. Ignatius of Loyola’s Spiritual Exercises helps discern God's presence and will, promoting deep reflection on Jesus. 

A modern example of unwavering focus on Jesus is Sr. Anna Ali, who experienced profound mystical encounters with Christ. Despite overwhelming challenges and physical suffering, Sr. Anna Ali remained steadfast in her devotion. Her experiences, deeply rooted in her prayer life and meditation, exemplify how to keep our gaze fixed on Our Adorable Jesus even in the most trying circumstances. Her life and witness remind us of Jesus' words in the Divine Appeal, urging us to fix our eyes on Him and attribute all good to His grace. By doing so, we recognize our dependence on His grace and mercy. In Him, we find our true identity, purpose, and strength. Let us heed His call and never turn our gaze away from the One who longs for our souls to be fixed on Him.